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Delhi at Dark
A moonlight killer abducts women, kills them, and leaves their corpse at his next abduction site. His killing spree brings two daring detectives together, Jay Mithra and Asra Khan. His queer methods, ciphered cartoon names, and unsystematic choice of victims demand the best crime scene investigator, Amar Rathore. These three childhood friends work on the case with meddlesome media and bureaucratic superiors repelling them. Their hunt unravels dark secrets, obsessed policemen and more dead people. Can they stop the self-improvising villain, who haunts Delhi at dark?
- GenresIndia
266 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
2 people are currently reading
199 people want to read
About the author
Ram Vignesh
4 books19 followersRam Vignesh is an Indian writer. He got published at an age of twenty(20), which made him one of the youngest Indian writers. His genres ranges from romance fictions to psychological thrillers.
He was born in Madurai, where he did his schooling. He resides in Chennai.
‘The Book’ was his debut novel. It was published by Leadstart Publishing Pvt Ltd in the year 2012. His second novel is a psychological thriller titled "Delhi at Dark", published in the year 2013 by the same publishing house. His third novel "Romantic Bouncers" was published by Notion Press, Chennai.
He was born in Madurai, where he did his schooling. He resides in Chennai.
‘The Book’ was his debut novel. It was published by Leadstart Publishing Pvt Ltd in the year 2012. His second novel is a psychological thriller titled "Delhi at Dark", published in the year 2013 by the same publishing house. His third novel "Romantic Bouncers" was published by Notion Press, Chennai.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
December 18, 2013
Delhi at Dark was mesmerizing and hard to put down book. I finished it in half a day.A thoughtful, deep plotted story line with clues here and there for us to guess the moonlight killer. I liked the character Amar the most. And also the romances between him and his wife even though this is a crime novel through and through. I liked so many things about this book but I fear I may reveal the plot. So what are you waiting for go and grab it now !
January 5, 2014
Started this book last night and finished it at one go. One of the most interesting crime thriller i have read in recent times.
This book is abt a team comprising of 3 friends (2 from CID & 1 from IB) combining to nab the deadliest serial killer that India has ever seen. The plot & characterization were absolutely top class. The cartoon names, the method of execution from books, the Ciphers that left behind were well thought out.
Thanks Ram for sending me a copy of this book as part of First Reads give away! Absolutely loved it.
'Shiva'kku ippadi aagipoche paaa' :)
August 31, 2014
It was amazing. A book, hard to put down midway while reading. An excellently woven plot with unexpected twists and turns. A must read for crime lovers.
April 30, 2014
About Author:
Ram Vignesh is an Indian writer. He got published at an age of twenty (20), which made him one of the youngest Indian writers. His genres ranges from romance fictions to psychological thrillers. He was born in Madurai, where he did his schooling. He moved on to do his engineering in Chennai. He is currently working for Infosys. The Book’ was his debut novel. It was published by Lead start Publishing Pvt Ltd in the year 2012. His second novel is a psychological thriller titled "Delhi at Dark", published in the year 2013 by the same publishing house. He has started writing his third novel, which will be a sports drama.
Plot: 5/5
Setting of the story is Delhi. A serial killer kidnaps women, kills them, and leaves their corpse at his next victim’s doorstep. Jay Mitra, Asra Khan and Amar Rathore, these three childhood friends work on the case with other minor characters like Tina Rathore, Janvi Mitra and Shiva. These all characters work hard to make Delhi free of this serial killer. Their hunt throws light on the dark secrets and corrupt policemen, and well planned criminal planning of the killer. Their journey revolves around three states of India, making it thrilling and it is full of shocking revelations, which brings them close to the killer.
Characters: 5/5
Jay Mithra: CID detective with Greek God personality and physique, who is defamed for his rage. He brings out his best to free Delhi from this serial killer.
Asra Khan: She is Jay Mitra’s childhood friend and CID detective. She is in the same pants as Jay.
Amar Rathore: He too, like Asra, is Jay’s childhood friend. He is investigator of the IB and works out all his intelligence to help his friends.
Janvi Mithra: She is Jay’s twin sister, who is journalist by profession and performs every task which can put the serial killer behind prison bars.
Tina Rathore: Amar Rathore’s wife, who is lawyer by profession.
Shiva: He is decipher, who helps Jay, Asra and Amar to solve different codes attached to dead bodies.
Writing Style: 5/5
‘Delhi at Dark’ is a second novel by Ram Vignesh. I must say, that he has created mind capturing work. Words seems lesser to express the feeling which I got after reading this fabulous work. I must say that I haven’t read such a great thrilling work till date. I loved the details and the depth he has got into creating a thriller, which can make reader skip all his tasks to complete the novel. I was so engrossed in the novel that, with the tension increased in novel, I too, was nervous and curious about what was coming next. Really a great work. I must say Sherlock Homes would be boring compared to ‘Delhi at Dark’. If you guys feel that I’m exaggerating than you people must read this novel. The way he has used technology and codes to create suspense, is really fantastic. Hats off Ram Vignesh for creating such a great work.
February 7, 2014
Amazing thriller
The story is well written. The young author has well researched before writing this book. I couldn't put the book down. I even read it during my classes. All the three characters Amar, Asra and Jay are mesmerizing. All three have their own unique identity, Amar being the best. The search for the serial killer goes through out the book. To know whether they catch him or not, you have catch the book and read it. I guarantee you wont put it down once you start reading it.
The book can be made into a movie, the plot is like that. The use of the technology (mainly hacking) is excellent. I liked the cartoon idea too. The story also contains a small brother - sister love, husband - wife romance, and boy - girl flirting.
One of the best crime/thriller novel by an Indian author.
The story is well written. The young author has well researched before writing this book. I couldn't put the book down. I even read it during my classes. All the three characters Amar, Asra and Jay are mesmerizing. All three have their own unique identity, Amar being the best. The search for the serial killer goes through out the book. To know whether they catch him or not, you have catch the book and read it. I guarantee you wont put it down once you start reading it.
The book can be made into a movie, the plot is like that. The use of the technology (mainly hacking) is excellent. I liked the cartoon idea too. The story also contains a small brother - sister love, husband - wife romance, and boy - girl flirting.
One of the best crime/thriller novel by an Indian author.
November 28, 2014
Exotic Yarn!!!
I thought of reading the first few pgs of the book and the rest later. But that was impossible for me as neither Jay nor Asra nor Amar would let me go as they wanted my involvement as a 'READER'. The narration was simply superb. The involvement of all the protogonists and the way the story took its twists and turns was awesome. The author who wrote his first book with - romance playing the main role has given a markable tale even in this genre. Way to go for the author.
I thought of reading the first few pgs of the book and the rest later. But that was impossible for me as neither Jay nor Asra nor Amar would let me go as they wanted my involvement as a 'READER'. The narration was simply superb. The involvement of all the protogonists and the way the story took its twists and turns was awesome. The author who wrote his first book with - romance playing the main role has given a markable tale even in this genre. Way to go for the author.
December 20, 2013
What a thriller!
An amazing read, the author had given a well-researched novel.
Pages turn automatically and will help you find the killer.
An amazing read, the author had given a well-researched novel.
Pages turn automatically and will help you find the killer.
April 5, 2014
A wonderful Thriller...Enjoyed Reading. Very good plot.Suspense was maintained throughout the book. Worth reading :) :)
April 7, 2019
nice thriller
August 24, 2023
A young girl is brutally murdered in the capital city of India, followed by the mysterious disappearance and subsequent death of another girl. It becomes clear that a serial killer is on the loose, but what makes the task difficult is that the killer leaves no trace. Detective Jay Mithra and Asra Khan, along with Amar Rathore, an unconventional but brilliant investigator, team up to solve the case. As they investigate, they uncover connections to unsolved murders from the past. To make things more complicated, they suspect a traitor within their own department. Will they be able to catch the serial killer and unravel the mysteries? The book is an okay read, although it could have delved deeper into the killer's psychology. The climax is decent, but not outstanding.
September 9, 2019
I'm impressed! It's worth to read.
One of the best crime thriller story I ever read. I still can't believe that the author penned down this at his 20yrs of age. He never gave me a feeling that he is an amateur writer. The way he described the scenes, the order of the story, the suspense at the end is quite appreciable. Keep up your good work Mr.Ram Vignesh
One of the best crime thriller story I ever read. I still can't believe that the author penned down this at his 20yrs of age. He never gave me a feeling that he is an amateur writer. The way he described the scenes, the order of the story, the suspense at the end is quite appreciable. Keep up your good work Mr.Ram Vignesh
March 25, 2018
Bit formulaic. It has lots of potential but I was a little disappointed, predictable. I wish to see this detective team handle more cases.
July 5, 2014
My Rating ***
Delhi at Dark by Ram Vignesh is the story of a killer who abducts women, kills them and leaves their corpse at his next abduction site. He is a born killer and uses queer methods. It doesn’t take long for Crime Investigating Department to realize that they have an organized, skilful, death dealer on their hands. Three childhood friends, now top crime investigating officers, Jay Mithra, Asra Khan and Amar Rathore come together to solve the mystery of this killer. While their hunt throws light on dark secrets, it also brings more dead people.
I would give this book 3 star. It is good, but I was hoping for more. If you are looking for deep character development, wonderful prose or something that really makes you think, then this book is not for you. This book is meant for pure entertainment and to shock and keep the reader, along with the characters, constantly guessing as to what will happen next. The story has excellent organisation (a beginning, middle and an end, all of them well-knit with each other). The style has a dramatic function. It makes for fusion, an interpretation of the past and the present, the fact and the sense of fact, that is, the two planes of experience are associated with the basic meaning of the story. While I admit enjoying this book, I did not find anything surprising. Many times you feel that you are reading a Hindi novel of Surendra Mohan Pathak. Overall, the book is a quick read and the author has managed to tie things up nicely with an effective climax.
The title of the book is Delhi at Dark. However, the setting of Delhi itself doesn’t feel so much like Delhi. The author never really takes advantage of anything this city has to offer. Delhi is a beautiful and magical city filled with so many hidden secrets and mysteries. I desperately felt that the story was missing out the essence and spirit of Delhi. While we get references of few famous places of Delhi, it never really felt like Delhi at all. This is from a person who has spent a considerable time in Delhi. The other thing that disappointed me is author’s treatment of the main character of the book – the serial killer. His backstory and personality are, to put it simply, poorly built. His character could have been developed in a much better way as the whole story revolves around him. The book would have been much more enjoyable if it had been focused on the psychology of the serial killer. The cover of the book also could have been much better.
(I received my copy of Delhi at Dark free from the author via Goodreads First Reads program.)
Read more on
http://pgalmora.wordpress.com/2014/07...
Delhi at Dark by Ram Vignesh is the story of a killer who abducts women, kills them and leaves their corpse at his next abduction site. He is a born killer and uses queer methods. It doesn’t take long for Crime Investigating Department to realize that they have an organized, skilful, death dealer on their hands. Three childhood friends, now top crime investigating officers, Jay Mithra, Asra Khan and Amar Rathore come together to solve the mystery of this killer. While their hunt throws light on dark secrets, it also brings more dead people.
I would give this book 3 star. It is good, but I was hoping for more. If you are looking for deep character development, wonderful prose or something that really makes you think, then this book is not for you. This book is meant for pure entertainment and to shock and keep the reader, along with the characters, constantly guessing as to what will happen next. The story has excellent organisation (a beginning, middle and an end, all of them well-knit with each other). The style has a dramatic function. It makes for fusion, an interpretation of the past and the present, the fact and the sense of fact, that is, the two planes of experience are associated with the basic meaning of the story. While I admit enjoying this book, I did not find anything surprising. Many times you feel that you are reading a Hindi novel of Surendra Mohan Pathak. Overall, the book is a quick read and the author has managed to tie things up nicely with an effective climax.
The title of the book is Delhi at Dark. However, the setting of Delhi itself doesn’t feel so much like Delhi. The author never really takes advantage of anything this city has to offer. Delhi is a beautiful and magical city filled with so many hidden secrets and mysteries. I desperately felt that the story was missing out the essence and spirit of Delhi. While we get references of few famous places of Delhi, it never really felt like Delhi at all. This is from a person who has spent a considerable time in Delhi. The other thing that disappointed me is author’s treatment of the main character of the book – the serial killer. His backstory and personality are, to put it simply, poorly built. His character could have been developed in a much better way as the whole story revolves around him. The book would have been much more enjoyable if it had been focused on the psychology of the serial killer. The cover of the book also could have been much better.
(I received my copy of Delhi at Dark free from the author via Goodreads First Reads program.)
Read more on
http://pgalmora.wordpress.com/2014/07...
November 24, 2014
Note : A Review of this book is published @ Readers' Muse
Gruesome murder and kidnapping – Just seems like the kind of book that I would read. Astonishingly it took me ages to finish this book in spite of the book belonging to one of my favourite genre. Of course I used to have a rather packed schedule when I reading this book. This book was supposed to be that perfect distraction that I needed, somehow the book quite didn’t manage to accomplish that.
The plot was not really air right. It had its share of loop holes. Given that the writer isn’t exactly a pro, plot loopholes can be overlooked as they were minor (I don’t want to go about mentioning it considering that I might have to give away the plot ).
The characters were shallow. Normally, a mystery set up offers a wide scope to play with characterization. Often mystery writers tend to experiment with the antagonist of the book. Unfortunately, our writer decided to play mellow when it came to the antagonist. Though he kept that suspense element alive till the end, the “end” seemed rather abrupt for me. In sense, the killer on loose didn’t really have a deep characterization.
The writing lacked the finesse that is required by plot with a gory murder scene to send a chill down the spine. The victims were portrayed nothing short of objects. More importantly, the motivation to kill – Our antagonist wasn’t really convincing with his motives. However the writing was clean in terms of language and sentences.
In short, the book isn’t what the summary promises.
VERDICT: Can be Missed
RATING: 3 on 5 (Only and only for the efforts and language)
Gruesome murder and kidnapping – Just seems like the kind of book that I would read. Astonishingly it took me ages to finish this book in spite of the book belonging to one of my favourite genre. Of course I used to have a rather packed schedule when I reading this book. This book was supposed to be that perfect distraction that I needed, somehow the book quite didn’t manage to accomplish that.
The plot was not really air right. It had its share of loop holes. Given that the writer isn’t exactly a pro, plot loopholes can be overlooked as they were minor (I don’t want to go about mentioning it considering that I might have to give away the plot ).
The characters were shallow. Normally, a mystery set up offers a wide scope to play with characterization. Often mystery writers tend to experiment with the antagonist of the book. Unfortunately, our writer decided to play mellow when it came to the antagonist. Though he kept that suspense element alive till the end, the “end” seemed rather abrupt for me. In sense, the killer on loose didn’t really have a deep characterization.
The writing lacked the finesse that is required by plot with a gory murder scene to send a chill down the spine. The victims were portrayed nothing short of objects. More importantly, the motivation to kill – Our antagonist wasn’t really convincing with his motives. However the writing was clean in terms of language and sentences.
In short, the book isn’t what the summary promises.
VERDICT: Can be Missed
RATING: 3 on 5 (Only and only for the efforts and language)
July 15, 2015
I won this book for free, through Goodread's GiveAway Program.
Really interesting crime thriller.
The Story is about a serial killer, spreading his wings over Delhi, at Dark. Three friends, Jay-Asra-Amar joins hand to solve this mystery.
"Their hunt unravels dark secrets, obsessed policemen and more dead people. Can they stop this self-improvising villain, who hunts Delhi at Dark"
The ending two pages were not up to the mark, I feel. And I had my suspicion on one character to be the "Cartoon Killer" when I was in 45-50% of the book, and tada... Killer turned out to be the same one.
Overall the book is really nice, with great plot. writing style can be improved.
4 stars Book.
Really interesting crime thriller.
The Story is about a serial killer, spreading his wings over Delhi, at Dark. Three friends, Jay-Asra-Amar joins hand to solve this mystery.
"Their hunt unravels dark secrets, obsessed policemen and more dead people. Can they stop this self-improvising villain, who hunts Delhi at Dark"
The ending two pages were not up to the mark, I feel. And I had my suspicion on one character to be the "Cartoon Killer" when I was in 45-50% of the book, and tada... Killer turned out to be the same one.
Overall the book is really nice, with great plot. writing style can be improved.
4 stars Book.
October 18, 2014
The plot was intense and thrilling. Character development was done a bit hastily. The author goes through the past life of the three musketeers a bit too quickly for my liking. The same applies to that for the cartoon killer.
I found the end a bit predictable. Also I could predict who the killer would be even before completing 40% of the book. But that may be because I have read many crime thrillers and watch too many crime/thriller related TV series.
Author does not take advantage of the numerous historical sites situated in Delhi. I believe that the book was based in Delhi only because of the Nirbhaya incident(this incident is referred to in the book).
This book has restored my faith in young Indian writers.
I found the end a bit predictable. Also I could predict who the killer would be even before completing 40% of the book. But that may be because I have read many crime thrillers and watch too many crime/thriller related TV series.
Author does not take advantage of the numerous historical sites situated in Delhi. I believe that the book was based in Delhi only because of the Nirbhaya incident(this incident is referred to in the book).
This book has restored my faith in young Indian writers.
October 30, 2014
I am a big fan of thrilling novels and I really loved this one. Simple language with a detailed description of events and the third person view on the story enhanced the beauty of this full of suspense crime based novel. Nowhere in the novel, Ram tried to create the events more crispy then they really are. He moved the story pretty well. Character description was phenomenal and each character had his own thinking and that was the thing which made me intact with the story.
I would really like to recommend this novel to all suspense/thriller/crime genre lovers.
FULL REVIEW AT 'THE AUTHOR'S BLOG'...
I would really like to recommend this novel to all suspense/thriller/crime genre lovers.
FULL REVIEW AT 'THE AUTHOR'S BLOG'...
September 12, 2014
The good thing about the book is, you will definitely want to complete it on one go. The writing has the thing to keep you involved into it. But, if you have read lots of detective novels , it is very easy to identify the killer. At least I could identify that person in one shot. Do not expect to have a brand new plot, but yes a good one for a day.
One more point to mention, I really don't understand why do I find these books of some Indian authors so much bollywood filmy type?
One more point to mention, I really don't understand why do I find these books of some Indian authors so much bollywood filmy type?
July 22, 2014
One of the WORST books I have ever read.
Ram Vignesh is just another tom, dick, harry executive who "thinks" he's an author. Ridiculous writing style. Even a secondary school kid can write better.
An absolute waste of time. Made for MISERABLE reading.
Ram Vignesh is just another tom, dick, harry executive who "thinks" he's an author. Ridiculous writing style. Even a secondary school kid can write better.
An absolute waste of time. Made for MISERABLE reading.
January 18, 2017
although the characters are a bit interesting the overall mystery and thrill element is missing in the story. its like the villain in the story the author has read some classic mysteries and political thrillers and jumbled them up in this not so good book.
December 6, 2014
Finished the book so fast. well written and good storyline!
December 9, 2016
Absolute page turner unputdownable
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews