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I Hear You: Most expectant mothers talk to their unborn baby. But what if the baby starts to respond.
Most expectant mothers talk to their unborn. But what if the unborn starts to respond?
Mahika is hoping that a baby will breathe new life into her dead marriage. But all her pregnancies meet the same fate, because no baby is perfect for Shivam, her genius geneticist husband. Until there is one. Rudra, the world’s first genetically altered foetus, is Shivam’s perfect creation and Mahika’s last hope.
The six-week-pregnant Mahika has just walked into her fertility clinic when she discovers an anonymous note that discloses the ugly truth behind her pregnancy. Before Mahika can come to terms with the fact that her husband’s quest for perfection has marked its territory in her womb, she finds herself locked in her own house. But then she discovers that her unborn son has extraordinary powers. As weeks pass by, Rudra calibrates and recalibrates his powers with one aim-Mahika’s freedom.
But Rudra needs more than his newly acquired powers to free his mother. He needs to betray his creator, his father. And he must do it before it’s too late.
Mahika is hoping that a baby will breathe new life into her dead marriage. But all her pregnancies meet the same fate, because no baby is perfect for Shivam, her genius geneticist husband. Until there is one. Rudra, the world’s first genetically altered foetus, is Shivam’s perfect creation and Mahika’s last hope.
The six-week-pregnant Mahika has just walked into her fertility clinic when she discovers an anonymous note that discloses the ugly truth behind her pregnancy. Before Mahika can come to terms with the fact that her husband’s quest for perfection has marked its territory in her womb, she finds herself locked in her own house. But then she discovers that her unborn son has extraordinary powers. As weeks pass by, Rudra calibrates and recalibrates his powers with one aim-Mahika’s freedom.
But Rudra needs more than his newly acquired powers to free his mother. He needs to betray his creator, his father. And he must do it before it’s too late.
288 pages, Paperback
Published April 17, 2023
42 people are currently reading
557 people want to read
About the author
Nidhi Upadhyay
3 books158 followersNidhi is the bestselling author of That Night and
I Hear You. She is an engineer, a headhunter, and a consumer of black coffee and dark chocolates. But her greatest interests are her children, her husband who is disillusioned that her writing career is his retirement plan, and a puppy who thinks he owns her. She is often found hiding her current search history from her boys. If not busy researching a way to kill, drown or dispose of bodies, Nidhi can be found reading thrillers or screaming at her boys.
She can be reached at:
Email: connect@nidhiupadhyay.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nidhiupadhya...
Instagram: @nidhiupadhyaywrites
I Hear You. She is an engineer, a headhunter, and a consumer of black coffee and dark chocolates. But her greatest interests are her children, her husband who is disillusioned that her writing career is his retirement plan, and a puppy who thinks he owns her. She is often found hiding her current search history from her boys. If not busy researching a way to kill, drown or dispose of bodies, Nidhi can be found reading thrillers or screaming at her boys.
She can be reached at:
Email: connect@nidhiupadhyay.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nidhiupadhya...
Instagram: @nidhiupadhyaywrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
November 23, 2025
I took my time to process what I had just read, and here I am still too stunned to say anything . The whole book took an unpredictable turn in the last 20 pages. I never could've imagined the twist at the end. I am damn sure that y'all won't be able to predict the story's plot twist as well. Someone who's into thrillers, this book is definitely a treat
May 31, 2023
"I Hear You" by Nidhi Upadhyay is an electrifying medical thriller that pushes the boundaries of imagination and captivates readers from start to finish.
From the moment I picked up this book, I was entranced by the unique premise and the author's exceptional storytelling ability. The concept of an unborn child responding to its mother's conversations is both intriguing and unsettling, setting the stage for a suspenseful and unpredictable narrative.
The protagonist, Mahika, finds herself trapped in a turbulent marriage with Shivam, a genius geneticist obsessed with perfection. After several failed pregnancies, Mahika's last hope lies in Rudra, the world's first genetically altered foetus, conceived by Shivam. However, as the story unfolds, Mahika is confronted with anonymous letters that shatter her trust and reveal unsettling truths about her husband's intentions.
The author skillfully weaves together elements of romance, suspense, and psychological turmoil, creating a riveting tale that kept me on the edge of my seat. The plot moves at a brisk pace, ensuring that readers are engaged and invested in the story from beginning to end. I was particularly drawn to the unexpected twists and turns that added layers of complexity and kept me guessing until the final pages.
While "I Hear You" is undoubtedly a thrilling and captivating read, I must note that it may not be suitable for those seeking light-hearted content. The story delves into dark and unsettling territory, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths and navigate morally ambiguous characters. However, for those who appreciate a unique premise, a well-crafted plot, and a story that will leave you on the edge of your seat, I wholeheartedly recommend it.
April 14, 2023
I had absolutely no idea this book was going to have me hooked to it, make me read word by word, keep me up late at night and absolutely blow my mind. I don't think I've read many paranormal thrillers, because I am always skeptical about their execution, but this book was so well written, it had me praying for the protagonist lol.
We have Mahila, who's pregnant, and her genius geneticist Husband Shivam, who have gone through 3 miscarriages. Shivam is a perfectionist, his OCD is real bad, is abusive and this has already ruined their relationship. But when Mahika realizes that her pregnancy is unnatural and her husband has something to do with it, she looks for ways to save herself and her unborn child. Before she can save herself, it's her unborn child that helps Mahika by responding to her.
The book has an air of suspense right from the start. The three POVs add an air of eeriness, and it helps build the tension. It will have you wondering who's right and who's wrong. There's a lot of science stuff, secret messages, past secrets that unveils one by one. But dude... Its the final chapter that takes the cake! It had me sit right up.
I still wish this book was a little bit longer and the psychological backdrop was fleshed out properly. Nevertheless, it felt refreshing to read a really good psychological/paranormal thriller that exceeded my expectations!
We have Mahila, who's pregnant, and her genius geneticist Husband Shivam, who have gone through 3 miscarriages. Shivam is a perfectionist, his OCD is real bad, is abusive and this has already ruined their relationship. But when Mahika realizes that her pregnancy is unnatural and her husband has something to do with it, she looks for ways to save herself and her unborn child. Before she can save herself, it's her unborn child that helps Mahika by responding to her.
The book has an air of suspense right from the start. The three POVs add an air of eeriness, and it helps build the tension. It will have you wondering who's right and who's wrong. There's a lot of science stuff, secret messages, past secrets that unveils one by one. But dude... Its the final chapter that takes the cake! It had me sit right up.
I still wish this book was a little bit longer and the psychological backdrop was fleshed out properly. Nevertheless, it felt refreshing to read a really good psychological/paranormal thriller that exceeded my expectations!
April 1, 2023
Two Words for the book,
'Claustrophobically Mind blowing'
If I were not busy instead of two days I'd have completed the book in one night.
"I Hear You" is a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and the ultimate price of perfection.
The story follows Mahika, a woman struggling to save her dying marriage and seeking a new hope in the form of a baby.
However, the perfect baby her genius geneticist husband Shivam creates comes with a terrifying cost, and Mahika finds herself trapped and alone.
The addition of Rudra, the world's first genetically modified foetus with extraordinary powers, adds an intriguing layer to the story as he seeks to free his mother from her captivity.
As much as you will keep on hoping for Mahika to safely get out and run away, you will also hate Dr. Steven, Dr. Grace, Shivam. At some point you may sympathise with Shivam too (DO NOT get carried away and root for him and Mahika to be together, he's simply evil) and you will absolutely love Neil and his father.
The book takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, as you sympathize with Mahika's plight and root for Rudra's success.
Nidhi Upadhyay's writing is compelling and draws the reader in, making it hard to put the book down.
The story's pacing is perfect, with just the right amount of tension and action to keep you engaged.
"I Hear You" is an exciting first part of what could potentially be a captivating series. The book leaves you wanting more, and eagerly anticipating what happens next to Rudra and Mahika.
My Verdict on the Book:
"I Hear You" is a must-read for fans of gripping thrillers and emotionally charged stories of sacrifice and love.
With a captivating storyline, well-developed characters, and thrilling action, this book is sure to keep readers hooked from start to finish. The author's writing style is engaging and immersive, making it easy for readers to lose themselves in the story.
From my end it is a highly recommended book that explores the dangers of perfection and the power of love.
P.S Thank you Penguin for this amazing ARC.
'Claustrophobically Mind blowing'
If I were not busy instead of two days I'd have completed the book in one night.
"I Hear You" is a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and the ultimate price of perfection.
The story follows Mahika, a woman struggling to save her dying marriage and seeking a new hope in the form of a baby.
However, the perfect baby her genius geneticist husband Shivam creates comes with a terrifying cost, and Mahika finds herself trapped and alone.
The addition of Rudra, the world's first genetically modified foetus with extraordinary powers, adds an intriguing layer to the story as he seeks to free his mother from her captivity.
As much as you will keep on hoping for Mahika to safely get out and run away, you will also hate Dr. Steven, Dr. Grace, Shivam. At some point you may sympathise with Shivam too (DO NOT get carried away and root for him and Mahika to be together, he's simply evil) and you will absolutely love Neil and his father.
The book takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, as you sympathize with Mahika's plight and root for Rudra's success.
Nidhi Upadhyay's writing is compelling and draws the reader in, making it hard to put the book down.
The story's pacing is perfect, with just the right amount of tension and action to keep you engaged.
"I Hear You" is an exciting first part of what could potentially be a captivating series. The book leaves you wanting more, and eagerly anticipating what happens next to Rudra and Mahika.
My Verdict on the Book:
"I Hear You" is a must-read for fans of gripping thrillers and emotionally charged stories of sacrifice and love.
With a captivating storyline, well-developed characters, and thrilling action, this book is sure to keep readers hooked from start to finish. The author's writing style is engaging and immersive, making it easy for readers to lose themselves in the story.
From my end it is a highly recommended book that explores the dangers of perfection and the power of love.
P.S Thank you Penguin for this amazing ARC.
February 11, 2025
what in the bollywood. it had so much potential but ended up being so insanely.. bs. i know that a book is its writer's baby, but this baby is dysfunctional sorry
May 13, 2025
I picked up the book with so much anticipation for a great story! The start was easy , the flow was going on good and I didn’t realise when I reached halfway but after that I felt like the story was just revolving around a few things and people and it was just roaming inside a circle as if the author is just twisting a few things here and there in their everyday course of life. Somehow I managed to get past this circle and at the end I honestly didn’t have much expectations and also I feel that even though the story progressed really slow but the closure felt rushed. Shivam’s childhood was totally messed up and it kinda blew me up as to how ms nidhi even thought of this. I wouldn’t say l didn’t like the story but ending was too messed up. It was like the reader is suddenly exposed to a ton of unclear shit , expecting us to figure the whole things as to how the Rudra inside Shivam created an actual Rudra and basically changed the reality to a great extent of fooling people
July 29, 2025
I discovered this book today and after reading the synopsis I couldn’t stop myself from reading it, thought I’ll finish it in 2-3 days max but lo and behold the moment I started reading this book there was no looking back 🤌🏻😮💨 Like the premise of the book was so captivating and the storyline was so well executed to keep the readers intrigued- I just loved it!
Mahika was too naive for my taste - but then I can understand what verbal abuse can do to someone - and ofcourse the unfavourable circumstances but I wished she should have done something sooner. Going through that kind of pain and suffering as a women could be life scarring. I felt so bad for her.
Shivam? I never really liked him - but I sympathised with him when I got to know about his childhood. Yk, like I had this doubt that whatever visions were going on there - it was his own!
Nidhi did a phenomenal job weaving psychology, science and everything in between and beyond in this story. I was questioning myself whether it was all true or not? Is it really paranormal? Uncanny? Whether baby Rudra was really what I think he is? Then I had to remind myself that he’s a genetically mutated baby. He was extraordinary, rare, an anomaly, the only one who existed.
However, the ending seemed rushed to me - I think there was a potential to dig deeper into Shivam’s situation or a better handling of explanation of baby Rudra’s situation. Despite this, I loved it.
Mahika was too naive for my taste - but then I can understand what verbal abuse can do to someone - and ofcourse the unfavourable circumstances but I wished she should have done something sooner. Going through that kind of pain and suffering as a women could be life scarring. I felt so bad for her.
Shivam? I never really liked him - but I sympathised with him when I got to know about his childhood. Yk, like I had this doubt that whatever visions were going on there - it was his own!
Nidhi did a phenomenal job weaving psychology, science and everything in between and beyond in this story. I was questioning myself whether it was all true or not? Is it really paranormal? Uncanny? Whether baby Rudra was really what I think he is? Then I had to remind myself that he’s a genetically mutated baby. He was extraordinary, rare, an anomaly, the only one who existed.
However, the ending seemed rushed to me - I think there was a potential to dig deeper into Shivam’s situation or a better handling of explanation of baby Rudra’s situation. Despite this, I loved it.
October 4, 2024
I hear you" is a captivating psychological thriller with intensely curated twists and turns.
The author gives you an edge-of-your- seat narrative that will keep you glued to the pages. The plot has been explored in such an immaculate manner of heart- pumping twists, that the story will linger long after finishing the book. After reading the author's debut work "That night" i was eagerly waiting for her next book and she did not disappoint at all.
Nidhi Upadhyay is an accomplished author who has mastered the art of writing intriguing thrillers that are genuinely worth reading. The enigmatic storyline has an irrevocable alluring impulse as i found myself completely immersed and trying to guess the next action of the protagonist.
Needless to say, i will highly recommend this book to all the psychological thriller enthusiasts who love a brilliantly captivating anticipated story.
The author gives you an edge-of-your- seat narrative that will keep you glued to the pages. The plot has been explored in such an immaculate manner of heart- pumping twists, that the story will linger long after finishing the book. After reading the author's debut work "That night" i was eagerly waiting for her next book and she did not disappoint at all.
Nidhi Upadhyay is an accomplished author who has mastered the art of writing intriguing thrillers that are genuinely worth reading. The enigmatic storyline has an irrevocable alluring impulse as i found myself completely immersed and trying to guess the next action of the protagonist.
Needless to say, i will highly recommend this book to all the psychological thriller enthusiasts who love a brilliantly captivating anticipated story.
March 18, 2023
Getting into the book, I knew nothing except whatever the cover read.
I was gripped from the very beginning and couldn't stop reading. Although it was just the first three chapters (given access by www.penguin.co.in - you can still read the first three chapters there), I thoroughly enjoyed.
The book switches perspectives: the wife, the husband and their unborn baby. It was very surreal to read from a perspective of an unborn baby. I thought it was a fresh take on a thriller.
Without giving away, this book deals with a heavy subject matter and the urgency of the situation is translated very well.
The writing style of the book is very engaging and you will feel to continue the book.
Shall update this review once I have read the entire book!
#ReadingTheUnbornBook
I was gripped from the very beginning and couldn't stop reading. Although it was just the first three chapters (given access by www.penguin.co.in - you can still read the first three chapters there), I thoroughly enjoyed.
The book switches perspectives: the wife, the husband and their unborn baby. It was very surreal to read from a perspective of an unborn baby. I thought it was a fresh take on a thriller.
Without giving away, this book deals with a heavy subject matter and the urgency of the situation is translated very well.
The writing style of the book is very engaging and you will feel to continue the book.
Shall update this review once I have read the entire book!
#ReadingTheUnbornBook
February 3, 2025
“I Hear You” by Nidhi Upadhyay is an engaging psychological thriller, but it left me with mixed feelings. The premise is intriguing, and the twists keep you hooked, but I struggled to connect with Mahika as a protagonist. She came across as overly naïve in the beginning, which made it hard for me to root for her, even as she evolved later in the story.
Without giving away spoilers, Shivam’s character felt deeply flawed, and I kept thinking Mahika should have handled things differently with him from the start. The shifting timelines added an element of mystery, but at times, they made the book feel a bit confusing.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers with layered characters and dark undertones, you might like this one. For me, it was an okay, one-time read—not bad, but not entirely gripping either.
Without giving away spoilers, Shivam’s character felt deeply flawed, and I kept thinking Mahika should have handled things differently with him from the start. The shifting timelines added an element of mystery, but at times, they made the book feel a bit confusing.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers with layered characters and dark undertones, you might like this one. For me, it was an okay, one-time read—not bad, but not entirely gripping either.
December 14, 2025
13/12/2025
I borrowed the physical copy of this book from Library yesterday and finished it on the same day. Entire day gone reading this book. It’s a very well written book with a great plot (&twists). The ending felt a bit rushed but maybe it was intended to be.
This is part of my attempt to discover more of Indian author books! And this indeed is recommendation worthy!
I borrowed the physical copy of this book from Library yesterday and finished it on the same day. Entire day gone reading this book. It’s a very well written book with a great plot (&twists). The ending felt a bit rushed but maybe it was intended to be.
This is part of my attempt to discover more of Indian author books! And this indeed is recommendation worthy!
June 17, 2025
Impressed.
It was a fast paced & interesting read.
It was a fast paced & interesting read.
July 17, 2024
Quite satisfied but not well as the previous book of the nidhi upadhyay. "THAT NIGHT "
November 19, 2025
“I Hear You” is an intense thriller that incorporates horror, suspense, and emotion and keeps you glued to it until the end. You feel like you are on an emotional journey reading the book- you will feel with Mahika when she is going through a tough time and you will be cheering Rudra when he is winning!
Two miscarriages force Mahika, who attempts hard to protect the unborn child in the story. She is escaping her unloving husband, Shivam and she finds strength in the thought of her baby. The messages of strangers provide her with courage and she learns to go through the most difficult moments. Rudra, a genetically engineered baby with special powers, further focuses on the plot as he wants to ensure his mother is not in harm since he has a thrilling twist!
The story begins in a slow manner but immediately gains momentum and becomes very intriguing. The characters are quite developed, and the denouement is a turn-taker. The twists of the end are jaw droppers. This book is a complete page- turner with a storyline that is gripping, characters that are memorable and a lack of action, which breathes no mercy on the page! I highly recommend this book to everyone!
Two miscarriages force Mahika, who attempts hard to protect the unborn child in the story. She is escaping her unloving husband, Shivam and she finds strength in the thought of her baby. The messages of strangers provide her with courage and she learns to go through the most difficult moments. Rudra, a genetically engineered baby with special powers, further focuses on the plot as he wants to ensure his mother is not in harm since he has a thrilling twist!
The story begins in a slow manner but immediately gains momentum and becomes very intriguing. The characters are quite developed, and the denouement is a turn-taker. The twists of the end are jaw droppers. This book is a complete page- turner with a storyline that is gripping, characters that are memorable and a lack of action, which breathes no mercy on the page! I highly recommend this book to everyone!
May 31, 2024
Not as good as the first book Nidhi Upadhyay wrote, I Don't want to HEAR about this
November 15, 2024
So so so disappointed. The premise seemed so intriguing but the execution was meh.
August 11, 2024
The psychology thriller that blew and played with my mind all at once.
The story was beautiful, intriguing and sad at the same time. I was so scared for Mahika's life and was rooting for her all the time. I hated Shivam I mean how can someone lock his wife and also kill their children? I hated him from the bottom of my heart and wanted Mahika to run. I also didn't like Mahika that much because she let her husband control her and didn't take a stand for herself.
The story was like riding a rollercoaster, thrilling, knowing what would come but at the same time knowing nothing.
My heart was beating so fast while I was reading the book because I knew what to expect but at the same time, I was dreading for their life and was scared.
When the plot twist came I was so shocked and it took me so long to understand what just happened, the plot was mind-blowing and I loved the thrill and scare the book had.
I'm a fan of Nidhi's writing the way she writes thrillers I think no one can. I've read both of her thrillers and they were no less than a 5-star read.
I loved reading this book and would definitely suggest everyone to read it. If you're a hardcore psychological thriller lover and have not read this book you're missing out on a beautiful thrilling masterpiece. I loved this book and would definitely recommend it to everyone.
The story was beautiful, intriguing and sad at the same time. I was so scared for Mahika's life and was rooting for her all the time. I hated Shivam I mean how can someone lock his wife and also kill their children? I hated him from the bottom of my heart and wanted Mahika to run. I also didn't like Mahika that much because she let her husband control her and didn't take a stand for herself.
The story was like riding a rollercoaster, thrilling, knowing what would come but at the same time knowing nothing.
My heart was beating so fast while I was reading the book because I knew what to expect but at the same time, I was dreading for their life and was scared.
When the plot twist came I was so shocked and it took me so long to understand what just happened, the plot was mind-blowing and I loved the thrill and scare the book had.
I'm a fan of Nidhi's writing the way she writes thrillers I think no one can. I've read both of her thrillers and they were no less than a 5-star read.
I loved reading this book and would definitely suggest everyone to read it. If you're a hardcore psychological thriller lover and have not read this book you're missing out on a beautiful thrilling masterpiece. I loved this book and would definitely recommend it to everyone.
May 1, 2023
If you're someone who enjoys medical thriller, you would want to try I Hear You. What vivid imagination and an equally eloquent vocabulary to support her story. I've been fan of this author's debut and am surprised to see her next story is very unique and completely different from her first. Bold move ma'am.
The story follows Mahi being pregnant with her first child and goes back to her scientist father and how she met her brilliant genicist husband years ago. What started as a lovely marriage soon turned into something controlling and sad and dysfunctional, now that she begins to unravel truths about her harmless, perfectionist husband.
We have a little romantic backstory that soon morphes into a thrilling one with several unreliable, unlikeable characters and an unknown narrator whose revelations will shock your core.
As a mother and a woman, I found myself shivering at times, and thanked the almighty that I am not pregnant anymore. This book is not for the light-hearted. Otherwise, I'd highly recommended it for readers who love a unique premise and a beautiful Singapore setting and a story with several cliffhangers.
The story follows Mahi being pregnant with her first child and goes back to her scientist father and how she met her brilliant genicist husband years ago. What started as a lovely marriage soon turned into something controlling and sad and dysfunctional, now that she begins to unravel truths about her harmless, perfectionist husband.
We have a little romantic backstory that soon morphes into a thrilling one with several unreliable, unlikeable characters and an unknown narrator whose revelations will shock your core.
As a mother and a woman, I found myself shivering at times, and thanked the almighty that I am not pregnant anymore. This book is not for the light-hearted. Otherwise, I'd highly recommended it for readers who love a unique premise and a beautiful Singapore setting and a story with several cliffhangers.
October 29, 2023
The premise of the book sounded so interesting that I bought it off Amazon. The book was so disappointing. This is probably why I feel that Indian authors are still yet to their game while writing thrillers. So so so disappointing
September 29, 2025
Rating: 3/5
Ok! This novel twisted my head 😭
Why I cut stars:
-1 star for leaving so many loose ends for poor readers like me to figure out. Half the time I was wondering if what I concluded is actually what the author wanted me to take away. The ending was so psychologically open that I kind of hated it.
-1 star for the execution in the final stretch. It honestly felt like the author was rushing to meet a deadline — we got served a half-baked cake. A tasty cake, yes, but still half-baked.
The good stuff (mind-bending spoilers ahead):
🥀In the end, it’s revealed that it was actually Rudra, the alter ego inside Shivam, who caused his own accident (more like Rudra compelled Shivam to drive into the petrol tanker). This means Baby Rudra’s guilt — that he was the one who killed his father — is unwarranted.
Hence, Rudra doesn’t truly have any supernatural powers. But this idea feels slightly contradicted when Baby Rudra talks about slipping his father’s diagnostic sheets from the corners. I think this is more of a thought or a belief he has, rather than something supernatural. Since he believes he caused his father’s death through telekinesis, he interprets it that way.
The most acceptable version, though, is this:
Baby Rudra has no telekinesis, though he is psychologically advanced. In the final statement, when Baby Rudra’s mind whispers, “Your imperfection is not the love for your mother but me inside you,” it suggests that, in some twisted way, Shivam’s alter ego Rudra now resides inside Baby Rudra as his true personality — without Shivam’s stronger personality pressing him down.
This circles back to the time when even Shivam couldn’t understand the “mutation,” though he knew something within the baby had changed. That mutation is Rudra, carried through Shivam’s DNA, and inherited by Baby Rudra. This explains why the child has flashbacks of his father’s childhood. In the end, Baby Rudra naively believes he had powers to turn his father’s wheel, but in reality, it was Rudra’s personality inside Shivam who caused the accident (a kind of suicide). Baby Rudra could only sense it because of the same genetic imprint of Rudra’s personality inside him.
In a kind of poetic justice, Rudra inside Shivam wanted to punish him — so that he no longer had to hide, but could live freely as the only personality inside Baby Rudra. It also serves as punishment for Shivam, who caused his parents’ accident by removing the bolt from the car. In that sense, justice is restored, because the good-hearted personality inside Shivam was always Rudra. He was cheeky, loving, and kind — not cut out for evil. But Shivam always suppressed that side of himself, i.e., Rudra.
So the final accident scene can be seen as Rudra overpowering Shivam’s psyche. Shivam’s cold, cruel genius would never commit suicide, but he could harm Mahika and even his own child, as he had done before with the miscarriages. Rudra overpowered him, came out of hiding, and gave both their personalities a final goodbye. With Shivam’s death, the body — and all his multiple personalities — died too.
But the final line of the novel reveals this: Baby Rudra has indeed inherited the gene/codon of his father’s personality — but specifically Rudra’s personality.
That also explains why Baby Rudra’s mind sometimes mocks him, saying things like “you’re just like your dad” (referring to Shivam’s personality), while at other times planning things with a different tone.
In truth, Baby Rudra doesn’t inherit powers, but something stranger: a genetic or psychological mutation, the Rudra-personality coded into Shivam’s DNA. That’s why Baby Rudra sees flashbacks of his father’s childhood, why he feels mocked or guided by a voice within. The final whisper—“Your imperfection is not the love for your mother but me inside you”—cements this. Shivam dies with all his fractured selves, but Rudra survives, fully and freely, inside the child.
The final whisper sums it up perfectly:
“Your imperfection is not the love for your mother, but me inside you.”
It’s haunting, poetic justice. Shivam’s cruelty dies with him, but Rudra—the alter ego he tried so hard to suppress—lives on fully in Baby Rudra. In the end, the novel isn’t about telekinesis at all. It’s about legacy, fractured identity, and the strange inheritance of both love and madness.
And in a twisted way, the cycle closes:
Shivam, who once suppressed Rudra, is gone.
Rudra now lives fully in Baby Rudra without suppression.
The mocking voice (“you’re just like your dad”) is that duality inside him — a reminder that he carries both Shivam’s cold logic and Rudra’s warmth/chaos.
Closing statements: 😁 😁
Unparalleled. Unmatched. Unrecoverable. The best — in all caps!!
Difficult to move on from this one .
Ok! This novel twisted my head 😭
Why I cut stars:
-1 star for leaving so many loose ends for poor readers like me to figure out. Half the time I was wondering if what I concluded is actually what the author wanted me to take away. The ending was so psychologically open that I kind of hated it.
-1 star for the execution in the final stretch. It honestly felt like the author was rushing to meet a deadline — we got served a half-baked cake. A tasty cake, yes, but still half-baked.
The good stuff (mind-bending spoilers ahead):
🥀In the end, it’s revealed that it was actually Rudra, the alter ego inside Shivam, who caused his own accident (more like Rudra compelled Shivam to drive into the petrol tanker). This means Baby Rudra’s guilt — that he was the one who killed his father — is unwarranted.
Hence, Rudra doesn’t truly have any supernatural powers. But this idea feels slightly contradicted when Baby Rudra talks about slipping his father’s diagnostic sheets from the corners. I think this is more of a thought or a belief he has, rather than something supernatural. Since he believes he caused his father’s death through telekinesis, he interprets it that way.
The most acceptable version, though, is this:
Baby Rudra has no telekinesis, though he is psychologically advanced. In the final statement, when Baby Rudra’s mind whispers, “Your imperfection is not the love for your mother but me inside you,” it suggests that, in some twisted way, Shivam’s alter ego Rudra now resides inside Baby Rudra as his true personality — without Shivam’s stronger personality pressing him down.
This circles back to the time when even Shivam couldn’t understand the “mutation,” though he knew something within the baby had changed. That mutation is Rudra, carried through Shivam’s DNA, and inherited by Baby Rudra. This explains why the child has flashbacks of his father’s childhood. In the end, Baby Rudra naively believes he had powers to turn his father’s wheel, but in reality, it was Rudra’s personality inside Shivam who caused the accident (a kind of suicide). Baby Rudra could only sense it because of the same genetic imprint of Rudra’s personality inside him.
In a kind of poetic justice, Rudra inside Shivam wanted to punish him — so that he no longer had to hide, but could live freely as the only personality inside Baby Rudra. It also serves as punishment for Shivam, who caused his parents’ accident by removing the bolt from the car. In that sense, justice is restored, because the good-hearted personality inside Shivam was always Rudra. He was cheeky, loving, and kind — not cut out for evil. But Shivam always suppressed that side of himself, i.e., Rudra.
So the final accident scene can be seen as Rudra overpowering Shivam’s psyche. Shivam’s cold, cruel genius would never commit suicide, but he could harm Mahika and even his own child, as he had done before with the miscarriages. Rudra overpowered him, came out of hiding, and gave both their personalities a final goodbye. With Shivam’s death, the body — and all his multiple personalities — died too.
But the final line of the novel reveals this: Baby Rudra has indeed inherited the gene/codon of his father’s personality — but specifically Rudra’s personality.
That also explains why Baby Rudra’s mind sometimes mocks him, saying things like “you’re just like your dad” (referring to Shivam’s personality), while at other times planning things with a different tone.
In truth, Baby Rudra doesn’t inherit powers, but something stranger: a genetic or psychological mutation, the Rudra-personality coded into Shivam’s DNA. That’s why Baby Rudra sees flashbacks of his father’s childhood, why he feels mocked or guided by a voice within. The final whisper—“Your imperfection is not the love for your mother but me inside you”—cements this. Shivam dies with all his fractured selves, but Rudra survives, fully and freely, inside the child.
The final whisper sums it up perfectly:
“Your imperfection is not the love for your mother, but me inside you.”
It’s haunting, poetic justice. Shivam’s cruelty dies with him, but Rudra—the alter ego he tried so hard to suppress—lives on fully in Baby Rudra. In the end, the novel isn’t about telekinesis at all. It’s about legacy, fractured identity, and the strange inheritance of both love and madness.
And in a twisted way, the cycle closes:
Shivam, who once suppressed Rudra, is gone.
Rudra now lives fully in Baby Rudra without suppression.
The mocking voice (“you’re just like your dad”) is that duality inside him — a reminder that he carries both Shivam’s cold logic and Rudra’s warmth/chaos.
Closing statements: 😁 😁
Unparalleled. Unmatched. Unrecoverable. The best — in all caps!!
Difficult to move on from this one .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2023
I Hear You by Nidhi Upadhyay is a psychological science thriller following Mahika, Shivam and their baby Rudra.
I just have three words to express my feelings regarding this book, I LOVED IT.
The plot opens up with an prologue from the baby's point of view, and the first time I read it, it literally sent chills through my body and I was hooked from that very point. The story is set in Singapore, Lucknow and New Jersey the plot follows the lives of a couple who got pregnant again after three miscarriages.
The plot setting is very eerie at first and later on you get used to it. The author has masterfully crafted the whole thing. Each chapter starts with a beginning of a new week in Mahika's pregnancy with a description on what the baby is like at this point in the pregnancy and then in the chapter we observe how fast the baby is growing as compared to the normal growth rate of a fetus at that particular week.
There are hints from the beginning of the story that maybe the mother is not happy and fine but the clear picture emerges giving way to the reader to confirm their suspicion that yes she is not fine as the story progresses. There is a game of hide and seek going on which points to the fact that there is more going on that meets the eyes and that kept me determined to just finish it in one go.
What I really loved about the book is Mahika's character arc and a proper description of the war that is going on within her. How from feeling helpless and just angry she goes on to try and learn to stand on her own two feet. The book has shown how abuse can become an integral part of any relationship without the person even realizing it. Like the abuse starts when two people get comfortable just like any other humane part of the relationship would start. The way that has been portrayed is just phenomenal.
In Shivam we see a man battling with an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, how that has affected his life and then how he became someone who would modify his own baby. It does make you feel sorry for him but not so much of that compassion is left once you realize how controlling he is and how he imposes his OCD upon his wife.
Rudra is the baby growing in Mahika's womb and probably the only character who adds a bit of lightheartedness to the story with his subconscious jabbing at him. The relationship between the fetus and the mother is so nicely portrayed. I loved it.
I would say that you should just go for it. It is a sensitive story written with a lot of compassion and gets all of it right.
I just have three words to express my feelings regarding this book, I LOVED IT.
The plot opens up with an prologue from the baby's point of view, and the first time I read it, it literally sent chills through my body and I was hooked from that very point. The story is set in Singapore, Lucknow and New Jersey the plot follows the lives of a couple who got pregnant again after three miscarriages.
The plot setting is very eerie at first and later on you get used to it. The author has masterfully crafted the whole thing. Each chapter starts with a beginning of a new week in Mahika's pregnancy with a description on what the baby is like at this point in the pregnancy and then in the chapter we observe how fast the baby is growing as compared to the normal growth rate of a fetus at that particular week.
There are hints from the beginning of the story that maybe the mother is not happy and fine but the clear picture emerges giving way to the reader to confirm their suspicion that yes she is not fine as the story progresses. There is a game of hide and seek going on which points to the fact that there is more going on that meets the eyes and that kept me determined to just finish it in one go.
What I really loved about the book is Mahika's character arc and a proper description of the war that is going on within her. How from feeling helpless and just angry she goes on to try and learn to stand on her own two feet. The book has shown how abuse can become an integral part of any relationship without the person even realizing it. Like the abuse starts when two people get comfortable just like any other humane part of the relationship would start. The way that has been portrayed is just phenomenal.
In Shivam we see a man battling with an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, how that has affected his life and then how he became someone who would modify his own baby. It does make you feel sorry for him but not so much of that compassion is left once you realize how controlling he is and how he imposes his OCD upon his wife.
Rudra is the baby growing in Mahika's womb and probably the only character who adds a bit of lightheartedness to the story with his subconscious jabbing at him. The relationship between the fetus and the mother is so nicely portrayed. I loved it.
I would say that you should just go for it. It is a sensitive story written with a lot of compassion and gets all of it right.
April 17, 2023
Book: I Hear You
Author: Nidhi Upadhyay
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Publisher: Penguin India
Pages: 288
I Hear You by Nidhi Upadhyay is a Psychological Thriller book based on the story of Mahika. Facing three miscarriages already, she was losing hope when she got Rudra, the world's first genetically altered foetus, all thanks to her husband, Shivam, who wanted a perfect creation. But the happiness of having Rudra was soon overshadowed because of the anonymous notes she was getting, letting her question her relationship with Shivam and his perfection. But before she could comprehend what was happening, she was locked in her own home, soon to realise that her unborn son has extraordinary qualities, and he could hear her. But is it enough to free Mahika from Shivam's cage? What will happen to them? To know the answer to these questions and what happens in the story, read the book.
As someone who reads thrillers once in a while, and that too a psychological thriller, I was so excited when I got it! Having heard a lot about the author because of her previous book, I wanted to see her writing and her work. So after receiving it, I started it as soon as possible. And from the first few pages itself, the author showed why she is so talked about.
From the very start to the end, the author has such a command over the plot, story, and suspense that you won't see a loose thread anywhere. And even near the last few pages of the book, where you assume you got the story, there is a twist. Also, the blend of scientific details in the story never felt burdened.
Although a part of the end was something that I guessed, the major chunk of it surprised me and the author deserves appreciation for keeping the story so gripping, uptight, and edgy.
The book was not much longer and I was expecting it to be finished in a day or two, but it took me around a week to finish it, for the sole reason that it made me immersed in it and I took it as slowly as life happened with the characters! Although there were a few instances with which I am skeptical, I am hoping to know the reasons for them in the next book, if it happens!
Overall, this book was all that I expected in a thriller, fast-paced, suspense build-up and its maintenance, unseen end, and gripping and engaging writing. If you are looking forward to reading a thriller, especially a psychological thriller, go for it.
I received the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Author: Nidhi Upadhyay
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Publisher: Penguin India
Pages: 288
I Hear You by Nidhi Upadhyay is a Psychological Thriller book based on the story of Mahika. Facing three miscarriages already, she was losing hope when she got Rudra, the world's first genetically altered foetus, all thanks to her husband, Shivam, who wanted a perfect creation. But the happiness of having Rudra was soon overshadowed because of the anonymous notes she was getting, letting her question her relationship with Shivam and his perfection. But before she could comprehend what was happening, she was locked in her own home, soon to realise that her unborn son has extraordinary qualities, and he could hear her. But is it enough to free Mahika from Shivam's cage? What will happen to them? To know the answer to these questions and what happens in the story, read the book.
As someone who reads thrillers once in a while, and that too a psychological thriller, I was so excited when I got it! Having heard a lot about the author because of her previous book, I wanted to see her writing and her work. So after receiving it, I started it as soon as possible. And from the first few pages itself, the author showed why she is so talked about.
From the very start to the end, the author has such a command over the plot, story, and suspense that you won't see a loose thread anywhere. And even near the last few pages of the book, where you assume you got the story, there is a twist. Also, the blend of scientific details in the story never felt burdened.
Although a part of the end was something that I guessed, the major chunk of it surprised me and the author deserves appreciation for keeping the story so gripping, uptight, and edgy.
The book was not much longer and I was expecting it to be finished in a day or two, but it took me around a week to finish it, for the sole reason that it made me immersed in it and I took it as slowly as life happened with the characters! Although there were a few instances with which I am skeptical, I am hoping to know the reasons for them in the next book, if it happens!
Overall, this book was all that I expected in a thriller, fast-paced, suspense build-up and its maintenance, unseen end, and gripping and engaging writing. If you are looking forward to reading a thriller, especially a psychological thriller, go for it.
I received the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2023
A woman and her womb’s wonderful journey of self-acceptance
Call it love and devotion, call it a mom’s adoration.
Foundation, a special bond of creation.
So begins the song Rockabye by Clean Bandit, one I think is entirely appropriate for the most impactful book I’ve read this year.
Let’s put it this way: few books have hit home as much as I Hear You. Like the author, I live in Singapore, near Goodman Road at that. Every single location and dialogue was all too real for me, showcasing the spirit of this melting pot of a city-state.
But that isn’t the real reason why I have rooted and cheered for this book so much. More than anything, it’s the arduous but victorious journey of a woman and her womb towards self-acceptance, and for once I was completely drawn in to this psychological science-fiction thriller, a sharp turn from my typical warm, funny, slice-of-life fare.
At its heart and soul is the story of Mahika, a woman battered, belittled and brainwashed so much by her manipulative husband that all sense of self-worth within her is seemingly lost. This is her fourth pregnancy, and the non-stop vomiting squeezes the life out of her, with three previous ones tragically ending in miscarriage.
Shivam, her eccentric genius of a genomic-scientist husband, will settle for nothing but the most perfect baby. His OCD and relentless desire for perfection and order leads to him imprisoning Mahika in her home, mind and body, with a façade of love camouflaging utter deceit and deception.
Ooh, love, no one’s ever gonna hurt you, love.
I’m gonna give you all of my love. Nobody matters like you.
Mahika is completely alone and friendless — both her parents have passed on (as have Shivam’s) — except for the one leading her to freedom by kicking in her belly. It is this saviour, Rudra, in her womb who gives her a reason to live, to fight another day and not give up. The snarky, sarcastic running commentary of his mind’s voice — like the Netflix series Eternally Confused and Eager for Love — made him the funniest character here.
Besides Rudra’s kicks, Mahika gains support from two other places: her beloved father’s meditation and sagely advice, and the genuine kindness of a chef called Neil who helps her wings (and her fondness for cricket!) to grow back, giving her the confidence so badly missing from her life. I loved these relationships so much, I wish her father and Neil got better conclusions than they did.
Your life ain’t gonna be nothing like my life.
You’re gonna grow and have a good life.
I’m gonna do what I’ve got to do.
What’s more, instead of today’s world of smartphones and AI, the 2003 Cricket World Cup lends it an oddly familiar air, when there was Internet but no Instagram, computers but no ChatGPT. When Sachin Tendulkar was our God (he still very much is!).
This is the perfect setting for a wildly gripping, page-turning sci-fi thriller. Where Rudra exists not only in his mother’s stomach but also, somehow, in his father’s past. Nidhi Upadhyay has weaved a masterful tale of courage, confidence and commitment in the face of evil, with the brilliant backdrop of Singapore.
Above all, this is first and foremost Mahika’s story. Her turnaround from meek to mighty — thanks no less to the guiding force in her belly — makes her the best female protagonist I’ve read in a long time. The heartwarming relationship with her father makes this an especially wonderful recommendation for Father’s Day.
Nidhi Upadhyay, you magician! I can’t wait to see the next rabbit from your hat!
Call it love and devotion, call it a mom’s adoration.
Foundation, a special bond of creation.
So begins the song Rockabye by Clean Bandit, one I think is entirely appropriate for the most impactful book I’ve read this year.
Let’s put it this way: few books have hit home as much as I Hear You. Like the author, I live in Singapore, near Goodman Road at that. Every single location and dialogue was all too real for me, showcasing the spirit of this melting pot of a city-state.
But that isn’t the real reason why I have rooted and cheered for this book so much. More than anything, it’s the arduous but victorious journey of a woman and her womb towards self-acceptance, and for once I was completely drawn in to this psychological science-fiction thriller, a sharp turn from my typical warm, funny, slice-of-life fare.
At its heart and soul is the story of Mahika, a woman battered, belittled and brainwashed so much by her manipulative husband that all sense of self-worth within her is seemingly lost. This is her fourth pregnancy, and the non-stop vomiting squeezes the life out of her, with three previous ones tragically ending in miscarriage.
Shivam, her eccentric genius of a genomic-scientist husband, will settle for nothing but the most perfect baby. His OCD and relentless desire for perfection and order leads to him imprisoning Mahika in her home, mind and body, with a façade of love camouflaging utter deceit and deception.
Ooh, love, no one’s ever gonna hurt you, love.
I’m gonna give you all of my love. Nobody matters like you.
Mahika is completely alone and friendless — both her parents have passed on (as have Shivam’s) — except for the one leading her to freedom by kicking in her belly. It is this saviour, Rudra, in her womb who gives her a reason to live, to fight another day and not give up. The snarky, sarcastic running commentary of his mind’s voice — like the Netflix series Eternally Confused and Eager for Love — made him the funniest character here.
Besides Rudra’s kicks, Mahika gains support from two other places: her beloved father’s meditation and sagely advice, and the genuine kindness of a chef called Neil who helps her wings (and her fondness for cricket!) to grow back, giving her the confidence so badly missing from her life. I loved these relationships so much, I wish her father and Neil got better conclusions than they did.
Your life ain’t gonna be nothing like my life.
You’re gonna grow and have a good life.
I’m gonna do what I’ve got to do.
What’s more, instead of today’s world of smartphones and AI, the 2003 Cricket World Cup lends it an oddly familiar air, when there was Internet but no Instagram, computers but no ChatGPT. When Sachin Tendulkar was our God (he still very much is!).
This is the perfect setting for a wildly gripping, page-turning sci-fi thriller. Where Rudra exists not only in his mother’s stomach but also, somehow, in his father’s past. Nidhi Upadhyay has weaved a masterful tale of courage, confidence and commitment in the face of evil, with the brilliant backdrop of Singapore.
Above all, this is first and foremost Mahika’s story. Her turnaround from meek to mighty — thanks no less to the guiding force in her belly — makes her the best female protagonist I’ve read in a long time. The heartwarming relationship with her father makes this an especially wonderful recommendation for Father’s Day.
Nidhi Upadhyay, you magician! I can’t wait to see the next rabbit from your hat!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2024
"I Hear You" by "Nidhi Upadhyay" is the first psychological thriller novel that plunges a reader into the ruins of Mahika and her husband Shivam’s marriage, and into the belly of Mahika’s pregnancy with the unborn child Rudra. Erecting marital discord in the terrain where genetics reigns supreme, this book becomes a careful overlay of a study of schizophrenia and dominance.
This is where the book begins, with an epilogue from the Rudra’s perspective which is that of a child still in the womb of his mother and this was a nice way to establish the atmosphere of the story – dark and rather depressing. The main theme is Mahika a woman whose marriage is on the verge of collapse and the only thing that she and her husband can attempt to revive their marriage is through child bearing. But she is a disappointment every time as Shivam is more concerned with cloning and genetic enhancement and his mission to have a genetically modified baby and thus when the world’s first cloned fetus Rudra is formed.
The way the author has done the characterization is simply out of this world. The social fall that is most illustrative of descent into womanhood is what has happened to Mahika, particularly her change from a helpless and despairing wife to an unbreakable mother. The very center of the motion picture can be considered as the affairs of the main character and her struggle to break off the love she still has to her husband who is not only a manipulative man but also an abuser. The author demonstrates how psychological abuse becomes one of the features in a couple’s relationship and gradually is embedded into the process, thus becoming inedible to exclude. The pacing is brisk, with each chapter propelling the reader further into the nightmarish reality of Mahika’s life.
In conclusion, it is a compelling psychological thriller that delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche. The author's exploration of genetic manipulation, mental health, and the complexities of abusive relationships is both thought-provoking and terrifying. This is a book that lingers in the mind, challenging the reader to confront uncomfortable truths about perfection and human relationships.
This is where the book begins, with an epilogue from the Rudra’s perspective which is that of a child still in the womb of his mother and this was a nice way to establish the atmosphere of the story – dark and rather depressing. The main theme is Mahika a woman whose marriage is on the verge of collapse and the only thing that she and her husband can attempt to revive their marriage is through child bearing. But she is a disappointment every time as Shivam is more concerned with cloning and genetic enhancement and his mission to have a genetically modified baby and thus when the world’s first cloned fetus Rudra is formed.
The way the author has done the characterization is simply out of this world. The social fall that is most illustrative of descent into womanhood is what has happened to Mahika, particularly her change from a helpless and despairing wife to an unbreakable mother. The very center of the motion picture can be considered as the affairs of the main character and her struggle to break off the love she still has to her husband who is not only a manipulative man but also an abuser. The author demonstrates how psychological abuse becomes one of the features in a couple’s relationship and gradually is embedded into the process, thus becoming inedible to exclude. The pacing is brisk, with each chapter propelling the reader further into the nightmarish reality of Mahika’s life.
In conclusion, it is a compelling psychological thriller that delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche. The author's exploration of genetic manipulation, mental health, and the complexities of abusive relationships is both thought-provoking and terrifying. This is a book that lingers in the mind, challenging the reader to confront uncomfortable truths about perfection and human relationships.
March 20, 2023
"I HEAR YOU" BY NIDHI UPADHYAY is a psychological thriller . This is my first ever psychological thriller and i must say this book is going to be a stepping stone for me to start reading psychological thrillers.
This thriller revolves around Mahika and her husband Shivam who is a Geneticist and obsessive perfectionist and their baby who is named Rudra , who is genetically altered foetus by her husband . Whereas Rudra , the baby is growing faster than Usual foetus and is able to hear and feel her mother's pain even during her initial stage Mahika wants to do anything to save her child . Although initially Mahika does not know about the truth of her baby that the baby is genetically altered.
The story of book takes a turn when Mahika comes to know about the hideous truth about her pregnancy that she has a genetically altered foetus in her , from a letter from her well-wisher even later in story she doubt that whether there is any well wisher or its just a plot from her husband . and side by side someone is also sending letter to Shivam who scares him to reveal the truth in front of her wife about her pregnancy . We also come to know that Shivam used to torture Mahika physically as well as mentally .
With every new chapter a new twist is there . I got a cold shiver while i was reading this.
Now in order to know if Mahika has escaped ?
Will Mahika be able to save her baby , Rudra ?
What will Shivam do when he comes to know about Mahika's intention ??
Cannot wait to break the suspense of mine which i have after reading the first 3 chapters of this book . I am overwhelmed after reading this book as i am also a new mom .. after reading every line of this book i felt like i am Mahika .
Thank you @nidhiupadhyaywrites and @penguinindia .Cannot wait for 17th April as this sensational book is available for reading on this day ..
Thank you @penguinindia and @nidhiupadhyaywriters making this possible for us to read this wonder book . I loved it ❤️❤️❤️❤️
This thriller revolves around Mahika and her husband Shivam who is a Geneticist and obsessive perfectionist and their baby who is named Rudra , who is genetically altered foetus by her husband . Whereas Rudra , the baby is growing faster than Usual foetus and is able to hear and feel her mother's pain even during her initial stage Mahika wants to do anything to save her child . Although initially Mahika does not know about the truth of her baby that the baby is genetically altered.
The story of book takes a turn when Mahika comes to know about the hideous truth about her pregnancy that she has a genetically altered foetus in her , from a letter from her well-wisher even later in story she doubt that whether there is any well wisher or its just a plot from her husband . and side by side someone is also sending letter to Shivam who scares him to reveal the truth in front of her wife about her pregnancy . We also come to know that Shivam used to torture Mahika physically as well as mentally .
With every new chapter a new twist is there . I got a cold shiver while i was reading this.
Now in order to know if Mahika has escaped ?
Will Mahika be able to save her baby , Rudra ?
What will Shivam do when he comes to know about Mahika's intention ??
Cannot wait to break the suspense of mine which i have after reading the first 3 chapters of this book . I am overwhelmed after reading this book as i am also a new mom .. after reading every line of this book i felt like i am Mahika .
Thank you @nidhiupadhyaywrites and @penguinindia .Cannot wait for 17th April as this sensational book is available for reading on this day ..
Thank you @penguinindia and @nidhiupadhyaywriters making this possible for us to read this wonder book . I loved it ❤️❤️❤️❤️
June 2, 2023
Title: I hear you
Author: Nidhi Upadhyay
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
An Unquiet Womb is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the unnerving possibility of an unborn child responding to its mother's conversations. Written by an anonymous author, this book takes readers on a suspenseful journey filled with twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The story revolves around Mahika a first-time expectant mother who begins to experience strange occurrences during her pregnancy. As she speaks to her unborn child, she becomes convinced that it is not only listening but also communicating back to her. This revelation sends her into a spiral of fear and confusion, questioning her own sanity and the reality of her situation.
The author skillfully weaves together a narrative that is both atmospheric and unsettling. The pacing is tight, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger that compels you to keep turning the pages. The protagonist's paranoia and growing obsession with her unborn child's responses create an intense and suspenseful atmosphere throughout the book. The characters in this book are well-developed and relatable.Her journey is particularly compelling, as we witness her transformation from a hopeful and excited mother-to-be to a tormented woman on the brink of losing her grip on reality. The supporting cast adds depth to the story, with their own secrets and motivations that add layers of complexity to the plot.
One aspect that could have been improved upon is the pacing in certain sections of the book. While the majority of the story is fast-paced and engrossing, there are moments where the narrative lingers, slowing down the overall momentum.
Overall a good read if you are into psychological thrillers go for it
#BookReview #PsychologicalThriller #AnUnquietWomb #SuspensefulRead #TwistsAndTurns #MotherhoodObsession #UnsettlingNarrative #EdgeOfYourSeat #JawDroppingRevelations #MustRead
Author: Nidhi Upadhyay
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
An Unquiet Womb is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the unnerving possibility of an unborn child responding to its mother's conversations. Written by an anonymous author, this book takes readers on a suspenseful journey filled with twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The story revolves around Mahika a first-time expectant mother who begins to experience strange occurrences during her pregnancy. As she speaks to her unborn child, she becomes convinced that it is not only listening but also communicating back to her. This revelation sends her into a spiral of fear and confusion, questioning her own sanity and the reality of her situation.
The author skillfully weaves together a narrative that is both atmospheric and unsettling. The pacing is tight, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger that compels you to keep turning the pages. The protagonist's paranoia and growing obsession with her unborn child's responses create an intense and suspenseful atmosphere throughout the book. The characters in this book are well-developed and relatable.Her journey is particularly compelling, as we witness her transformation from a hopeful and excited mother-to-be to a tormented woman on the brink of losing her grip on reality. The supporting cast adds depth to the story, with their own secrets and motivations that add layers of complexity to the plot.
One aspect that could have been improved upon is the pacing in certain sections of the book. While the majority of the story is fast-paced and engrossing, there are moments where the narrative lingers, slowing down the overall momentum.
Overall a good read if you are into psychological thrillers go for it
#BookReview #PsychologicalThriller #AnUnquietWomb #SuspensefulRead #TwistsAndTurns #MotherhoodObsession #UnsettlingNarrative #EdgeOfYourSeat #JawDroppingRevelations #MustRead
September 15, 2023
Mahika Rathod is pregnant and although tired and depressed, she is very hopeful of at least having this child. Being in an abusive relationship with a manipulative husband and after having to go through the loss of 3 pregnancies, Mahika is really battered. Her life in Singapore with her genius and eccentric husband has been anything but happiness and she is now living only for this baby to come to her world. During one of her first visits to the clinic, she gets a note which tells her that her baby is special. The baby is genetically modified and is an experiment subject. She gets further notes asking her to escape from her abusive husband soon!
Sivam Rathod is a geneticist, and he suffers from acute OCD and perfection issues. His findings, experiments, and research matters to him more than anything. To him, losing a child which had Downs Syndrome or aborting a child he thought was not his are all easy and not complicated. He is now on the verge of a breakthrough- he has conceived the world’s first genetically modified foetus and this foetus is growing inside Mahika. But Sivam’s hopes are slightly out of focus when he starts getting notes of warning from someone who promises to expose the illegal research and experiments, he has committed. He is more cautious than before and makes sure Mahika is locked in their house with continued vigilance.
Rudra, the much awaited genetically modified foetus which is inside Mahika’s womb! This baby is a character in this book, and he starts to communicate with his mother and helps her go past the physical and mental abuse inflicted by Sivam.
A very quick paced thriller, this was my first book by Nidhi Upadhyay. The suspense as to what will happen to Rudra and Mahika, the love between the mother and the baby in her womb, the compassion from the individuals who try to help Mahika, the issues faced by Sivam with his OCD and anxiety and finally the twist – this book is worth the read!
Sivam Rathod is a geneticist, and he suffers from acute OCD and perfection issues. His findings, experiments, and research matters to him more than anything. To him, losing a child which had Downs Syndrome or aborting a child he thought was not his are all easy and not complicated. He is now on the verge of a breakthrough- he has conceived the world’s first genetically modified foetus and this foetus is growing inside Mahika. But Sivam’s hopes are slightly out of focus when he starts getting notes of warning from someone who promises to expose the illegal research and experiments, he has committed. He is more cautious than before and makes sure Mahika is locked in their house with continued vigilance.
Rudra, the much awaited genetically modified foetus which is inside Mahika’s womb! This baby is a character in this book, and he starts to communicate with his mother and helps her go past the physical and mental abuse inflicted by Sivam.
A very quick paced thriller, this was my first book by Nidhi Upadhyay. The suspense as to what will happen to Rudra and Mahika, the love between the mother and the baby in her womb, the compassion from the individuals who try to help Mahika, the issues faced by Sivam with his OCD and anxiety and finally the twist – this book is worth the read!
April 9, 2024
"She had long forgotten the taste of praise and self-worth."
"Not to forget a survelliance camera is waiting for you."
BOOK: I HEAR YOU
AUTHOR: @nidhiupadhyaywrites
GENRE: #sciencefiction #thriller #psychologicalfiction
RATING: 🤰🤰🤰🤰
Mihika and shivam a couple who have had a love-cum- arranged marriage, living like the hunter and the hunted, in a cat and mouse game. Abusive marriages are nothing new for us, its one of the worldwide discussed and yet continued in the silence and anonymity of a house at many places , many families, mihika our central character is also abused, but her love- hate feeling for her husband is clouding her judgements at times, like all loving wives. This book speaks about one of the major social issue we face since forever domestic violence and abuse. But the highlight of the book is that it can be categorised as a science fiction; which takes us into a slow and intense journey of what happens when science and money together can be put into the wrong hands ! Its also a psychological thriller that speaks about an intense personality to crack called "Shivam". The storyline of this book is strong, I would give 4 rating for this book for the idea and the character depth, but there are few points I would have liked the author to have focused on there were some unexplainable deaths of Dr Mishra , when we read the book we will know who killed him but the real question is , how was he killed? Whats the secret behind Neil's family ? Are they just a coincidence? What happened to the twins of Dr. Grace? How was Rudra's birth like ? How difficult was it for mihika to give birth to such a child? The story was going in a slow pace and then towards the end quickly paced. Somewhere I could sympathize with Shivam and fall in love with Rudra, I am well aware of childhood abuses, so I know why the antagonist turned out the way he did.
" I doubt you can put together this puzzle , my friend."
"Not to forget a survelliance camera is waiting for you."
BOOK: I HEAR YOU
AUTHOR: @nidhiupadhyaywrites
GENRE: #sciencefiction #thriller #psychologicalfiction
RATING: 🤰🤰🤰🤰
Mihika and shivam a couple who have had a love-cum- arranged marriage, living like the hunter and the hunted, in a cat and mouse game. Abusive marriages are nothing new for us, its one of the worldwide discussed and yet continued in the silence and anonymity of a house at many places , many families, mihika our central character is also abused, but her love- hate feeling for her husband is clouding her judgements at times, like all loving wives. This book speaks about one of the major social issue we face since forever domestic violence and abuse. But the highlight of the book is that it can be categorised as a science fiction; which takes us into a slow and intense journey of what happens when science and money together can be put into the wrong hands ! Its also a psychological thriller that speaks about an intense personality to crack called "Shivam". The storyline of this book is strong, I would give 4 rating for this book for the idea and the character depth, but there are few points I would have liked the author to have focused on there were some unexplainable deaths of Dr Mishra , when we read the book we will know who killed him but the real question is , how was he killed? Whats the secret behind Neil's family ? Are they just a coincidence? What happened to the twins of Dr. Grace? How was Rudra's birth like ? How difficult was it for mihika to give birth to such a child? The story was going in a slow pace and then towards the end quickly paced. Somewhere I could sympathize with Shivam and fall in love with Rudra, I am well aware of childhood abuses, so I know why the antagonist turned out the way he did.
" I doubt you can put together this puzzle , my friend."
April 24, 2025
Most mothers talk to their unborn babies, but what if the baby talks back—and she can understand it?
Mahika should be embracing motherhood, but instead, she finds herself spiraling into a terrifying reality. When she begins hearing her baby respond—and realizes she can understand it—she first dismisses it as her imagination. But as the eerie whispers turn into horrifying visions, she starts questioning her sanity, her past, and the people around her. As secrets unfold, the story dives deep into psychological horror and suspense.
What makes Mahika’s character compelling is her strength—she acknowledges her flaws and fights to overcome them. Rather than succumbing to fear, she tries to regain control and independence, making her one of the book’s strongest aspects.
Then there’s Shivam—her husband, a man obsessed with perfection. His world revolves around order and control, but does that protect Mahika or push her further into distress? Her father plays a crucial role in shaping her doubts, while Dr. Stevens adds an unsettling scientific layer to the mystery.
The way science blends into the story is commendable—it’s clear that the author has done thorough research to weave in scientific theories into the narrative. Whether it’s genetics, psychology, or the idea of memories being passed down, the book grounds its horror in well-researched science, making it even more unsettling.
Though the book builds intrigue, its pacing isn’t always steady. The uneven rhythm slightly dampens the reading experience. Certain twists are clever and gripping, but others feel predictable, slowing the momentum.
The eerie atmosphere starts strong but soon feels suffocating. Personally, I prefer some shifts in tone, but this book maintains a heavy mood throughout, which makes it feel monotonous at times.
I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with a touch of science.
Mahika should be embracing motherhood, but instead, she finds herself spiraling into a terrifying reality. When she begins hearing her baby respond—and realizes she can understand it—she first dismisses it as her imagination. But as the eerie whispers turn into horrifying visions, she starts questioning her sanity, her past, and the people around her. As secrets unfold, the story dives deep into psychological horror and suspense.
What makes Mahika’s character compelling is her strength—she acknowledges her flaws and fights to overcome them. Rather than succumbing to fear, she tries to regain control and independence, making her one of the book’s strongest aspects.
Then there’s Shivam—her husband, a man obsessed with perfection. His world revolves around order and control, but does that protect Mahika or push her further into distress? Her father plays a crucial role in shaping her doubts, while Dr. Stevens adds an unsettling scientific layer to the mystery.
The way science blends into the story is commendable—it’s clear that the author has done thorough research to weave in scientific theories into the narrative. Whether it’s genetics, psychology, or the idea of memories being passed down, the book grounds its horror in well-researched science, making it even more unsettling.
Though the book builds intrigue, its pacing isn’t always steady. The uneven rhythm slightly dampens the reading experience. Certain twists are clever and gripping, but others feel predictable, slowing the momentum.
The eerie atmosphere starts strong but soon feels suffocating. Personally, I prefer some shifts in tone, but this book maintains a heavy mood throughout, which makes it feel monotonous at times.
I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with a touch of science.
March 18, 2023
Mahika Rathod is a domestically abused wife. But like many Indian women she refuses to acknowledge that fact and likes to remain in that cage of marriage fearing social stigma.
But the mother in her is in for a rude shock when she starts receiving anonymous letters asking her to protect her unborn child from her husband who is a genetics scientist.
The inadvertent conversation Mahika hears in the fertility clinic where her husband's superior asks him to treat his wife's womb as an incubator sends shock waves through her.
She realises she is carrying a genetically altered foetus as the baby starts showing the progress of sixteen weeks in just eight weeks.
On the other hand is Rudra Mahika's unborn baby who starts hearing his mother's tears and her desperation much ahead of time. Rudra slowly realises his mother is trapped and she wants to free herself for his sake.
However the lives of Mahika and Rudra are in the hands of Shivam, Mahika's husband and Rudra's father. Shivam keeps the tab on Mahika's pregnancy like anything including locking her in the house. In his quest to design the perfect baby he doesn't think about the emotional turmoil Mahika had undergone in three miscarriages and her mental condition if she loses Rudra.
Reading just three chapters of this psychological thriller has left me wanting more. A book that deals with the greed of scientists to play God and the love of a mother for her child and the love of a child for his trapped mother is definitely worth read. As we need to see how far science can go ignoring human emotions.
Also I am looking forward to see whether Mahika will get enough courage to escape the prison Shivam set up for her? Will Rudra the super baby help his mother? Will Shivam be finally forced to answer regarding the ethical questions his research raises? Looking forward to read this book to the last page
But the mother in her is in for a rude shock when she starts receiving anonymous letters asking her to protect her unborn child from her husband who is a genetics scientist.
The inadvertent conversation Mahika hears in the fertility clinic where her husband's superior asks him to treat his wife's womb as an incubator sends shock waves through her.
She realises she is carrying a genetically altered foetus as the baby starts showing the progress of sixteen weeks in just eight weeks.
On the other hand is Rudra Mahika's unborn baby who starts hearing his mother's tears and her desperation much ahead of time. Rudra slowly realises his mother is trapped and she wants to free herself for his sake.
However the lives of Mahika and Rudra are in the hands of Shivam, Mahika's husband and Rudra's father. Shivam keeps the tab on Mahika's pregnancy like anything including locking her in the house. In his quest to design the perfect baby he doesn't think about the emotional turmoil Mahika had undergone in three miscarriages and her mental condition if she loses Rudra.
Reading just three chapters of this psychological thriller has left me wanting more. A book that deals with the greed of scientists to play God and the love of a mother for her child and the love of a child for his trapped mother is definitely worth read. As we need to see how far science can go ignoring human emotions.
Also I am looking forward to see whether Mahika will get enough courage to escape the prison Shivam set up for her? Will Rudra the super baby help his mother? Will Shivam be finally forced to answer regarding the ethical questions his research raises? Looking forward to read this book to the last page
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