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Veil of Shadows

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What happens when you can’t trust those who have access to the nation’s most secret intelligence? As the country makes big economic strides, the arrest of a local arms dealer, Keshav Thakur, alerts the Research and Analysis Wing about a plot to abduct the country’s top nuclear scientist, Hamid Ansari, who is in possession of a unique nuclear fusion formula. Meanwhile, a military coup topples the democratic government of Myanmar. And a novel overriding device called Vita is stolen. And so begins a race against time for R&AW’s top agents, Vikram Aditya Singh and Ranbir Roy, as they work to unravel the complex web that ties these seemingly disparate events together. Each turn brings a new mystery: Who is the shadowy figure pulling the strings and just how far does his reach extend? Is Professor Hamid Ansari truly what he seems? What deep conspiracy is Pakistan’s finance minister involved in? With so many unanswered questions, do Vikram and Ranbir have the right target in their crosshairs? Will they succeed?

280 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 25, 2023

8 people are currently reading
89 people want to read

About the author

Siddharth Maheshwari

4 books42 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
Profile Image for Chhavi.
108 reviews114 followers
August 8, 2023
My first Political Thriller and it couldn’t have gone better!!

Veil of Shadows revolves around a huge conspiracy, which involves the theft of an extreme dangerous hacking device and the abduction of one of the best nuclear scientists. And to solve this, people of R&AW are giving it their all, travelling through Pakistan, India and Myanmar.

It gave me the same adrenaline rush as Akshay Kumar’s movie ‘Baby’ but it was better because unlike the movie, my focus was not on action but only on the storyline.

I did find the book to be a little confusing initially, but once I got used to the dozens of characters, it was a smooth ride. The entire mystery had a lot of facets and their were so brilliantly connected that the book flowed like a movie only.

If you are a thriller fanatic, then do read this book because it is not like our usual crime thrillers. It’s multi-layered and you will love it❤️
Profile Image for Mugdha Mahajan.
809 reviews79 followers
August 14, 2023
"Veil of Shadows" by Siddharth Maheshwari presents an exhilarating dive into the world of espionage and intrigue. The story's brisk pace and seamless blend of the RAW spies' adventures held me in thrall, much like a gripping TV series or movie.

The vivid portrayal of the RAW agents' relentless pursuit of terrorists and the tension-fueled plot kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. The narrative's heart-pounding revelations and the intricate web of espionage added an exhilarating rush of adrenaline, akin to experiencing the story unfold in real time. Through these pages, my admiration for the lives of spies and individuals on the frontlines, including those in the military, deepened significantly.

"Veil of Shadows" emerges as a resounding recommendation for people who absolutely love thrillers. Embarking on this literary journey guarantees an enthralling experience that will undoubtedly leave readers enthralled.
Profile Image for Aachal .
170 reviews5 followers
May 24, 2025
A Thrilling Game of Secrets and Survival!

Veil of Shadows is one of those books that grips you from the very first page. It's full of mystery, suspense, and a lot of fast-paced action that never lets you get bored. The story is centered around two R&AW agents, Vikram and Ranbir, who are thrown into a web of political chaos, nuclear threats, and unexpected betrayals.

When a brilliant nuclear scientist, Hamid Ansari, suddenly disappears, it becomes clear that something much bigger is going on. The agents must act quickly, especially when other major incidents start to unfold—like a military takeover in Myanmar and a high-tech project getting stolen. Everything seems to be connected, but the puzzle pieces only fall into place slowly, keeping you guessing all the way.

The best part of this book is how real and intense the situations feel. The action moves from one location to another—India, Nepal, Myanmar—and every setting adds to the danger and excitement. There are so many secrets, traps, and twists that it feels like watching a gripping movie in your head.

This book is perfect if you like stories that combine spy missions, international politics, and high-stakes danger. It’s not just about action—it also shows how deep corruption and betrayal can go when power is involved.

Rating: 4.5/5
A solid, entertaining thriller that keeps you on edge till the end.
Profile Image for Melina Lobo.
824 reviews98 followers
September 4, 2023
"Veil Of Shadows," penned by Siddarth Maheshwari, delivers a gripping political thriller that was an interesting read for me due to its Bollywood-like allure. The heart of this book lies in its meticulously crafted plot, offering a generous dose of adventure and intrigue with a lot of heart-pounding rush as it immerses readers into the intricate world of intelligence services.

While the story's pace keeps you on the edge, I couldn't help but wish for a more concise writing style. At times, the narrative seemed to meander, making certain portions feel dull and elongated.

Nonetheless, if you harbour a passion for espionage and the intricacies of political intrigue, "Veil Of Shadows" is undoubtedly a page-turner tailored to your tastes. Maheshwari's storytelling prowess ensures that readers are engulfed in a whirlwind of covert operations, political manoeuvres, and unexpected twists, making this novel an enthralling read for enthusiasts of the genre.
Profile Image for Deotima Sarkar.
890 reviews27 followers
September 28, 2023
Veil of Shadows by Siddharth Maheshwari
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When a top nuclear scientist of the country Hamid Ansari is abducted and a new powerful device Vita goes missing from DRDO s Pune lab, R&AW has to step in..
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Two top agents - Vikram Singh and Ranbir Roy supported by characters such as Arvind , Wasim and Parth!
Spanning places covering two thirds of the globe we see the plot unfolding from Delhi, Pakistan, to the historic Multan, Kathmandu and our southern parts of the country we see the plot unfolding.
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Plans backfire, coups take place, there is murder too, each sub titled chapter finds your heart beating in a will they, wont they, thrilling situation, making your mind race with the plot of the book!
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As you grab on to your seats reading through this, you see how each little character plays its significance, I especially must mention Naina here! The political theme is blended in with the spy and thriller world meticulously!
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Overall definitely an exciting read!
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Profile Image for Sneha.
54 reviews131 followers
September 2, 2023
In this book chaos unfolds with the arrest of a local arms dealer and tip about the upcoming abduction of Hamid Ansari, country’s top nuclear scientist that puts R&AW on alert.

I blame Bollywood for wiring my mind such that I can’t read Indian thrillers without imagining Akshay Kumar, Hritik Roshan or SRK as protagonists. Forgive me for stereotyping but these well built government officials with their high morale compass who save the country from reaching it’s doom, one mission after the other.

Veil of Shadows takes it’s readers through the landscape and politics of India, Myanmar and Pakistan.

With short chapters and a gripping plot I am sure it’s going to be a hit with most readers. The book wasn’t working for me in the beginning but kept getting better with each chapter.

The chapter called ‘The Plot Thickens’ had me biting my nails! What’s noteworthy is despite a plethora of characters none of the character has been written in vain. Each one serves a purpose of making this political thriller a must read.

If you want to ‘read a Bollywood movie’ this book is for you!
Profile Image for Gayathri (books_and_lits).
106 reviews1 follower
September 10, 2023
A definite page turner which keeps you glued to the story till the very last chapter for sure!Though there are innumerable characters involved,the author's idea to give a brief info about the person in topic through general conversation is a best idea to avoid any confusion or the possibility of losing the track of the story!Yet another very impressive point I found about this political thriller was that,throughout the entire story I really couldn't suspect ANYONE thinking that they might be the so-called 'Top Hat' and also I was never really able to even remotely guess what might happen next(usually we would be able to guess right at least once at any point of a thriller story and the author would try to frame many people in the course of the story to turn our attention and suspicions towards them).This peculiarity was very new and was impressive.

I felt like I was taken on a tour throughout India and some parts of Pakistan,Myanmar,Nepal.The backdrop of each scene was painted more vividly that at some point,I felt like I was trekking the mountainous terrain with Naina.

Almost everything was plausible and there was ALWAYS a logical explanation given for any course of action taken by the characters making the story more realistic and acceptable.

I also gained some knowledge on how things work at the intelligence level and how missions are carried out at a painstaking level BUT without a hint of them happening!

I honestly have gained some respect for the spies and intelligence agencies after this read.

A compelling read which would even throw some light with your knowledge on the world of espionage,spies,inter-government undercover operations,etcetera...
Profile Image for Deepthi.
629 reviews47 followers
September 10, 2023
This is a political thriller,set in the world of RAW and intelligence.
Book is set in where RAW agents Ranbir Roy and Vikram Singh are on mission to rescue Ansari, a scientist who conducts nuclear fission reactions . Along with this there is a a device VITA stolen.

The author has a firm grasp for espionage, as I was also interested in themes where this happens, I thoroughly enjoyed this book with its wild ride and page turning story.Every character is different and loved for its personality.It is like a mystery puzzle.

Some lines in the book really captivated me…

“Life is not a gam of poker, we cant gamble innocent’s life”
This happens when Vikram wants to catch the ISI agent read handed at the cost of innocent life.

“Life is a series of calculations. We must never let them realise our next move”

“At some stage in life every individual starts to make selfish plans for their future.”

I have watched many spy movies , realised this book is a bit slow for me. But this one has intricate plot twists and suspense to keep you going.The surprise at climax is worth a read.

Overall its a action & suspense packed book. You are in for a ride. Pick it up if u like political thrillers.
Profile Image for Aayushi.
55 reviews57 followers
August 12, 2023
Veil Of Shadows is a brilliantly plotted espionage thriller by Siddharth Maheshwari.
This action-packed and intriguing thriller is an absolute page-turner! In this book, the writer explores themes of political espionage and the challenges faced by intelligence agents.

The narrative is compelling, swiftly paced and kept me engaged throughout the book. The plot is deeply layered and brimming with suspense, drama and action.
Every character is exceptionally crafted, has a magnetic presence and a pivotal role in the story. As the plot unfolds, the protagonists Vikram and Ranbir emerge as dynamic heroes risking lives for their country while also fighting their own inner battles.

The story has multiple intricately plotted storylines which seamlessly weave together to reveal a shocking and unforeseeable climax. The author has masterfully concocted an unforgettable and wholesome thriller that is nothing short of a Bollywood blockbuster.
Profile Image for Unboxing Perspectives.
351 reviews7 followers
August 18, 2023
Another suspense thriller down for the year. I guess I am going back to these suspense thrillers. This story moves around our R&AW agents and intelligence services. You will find a touch of Bollywood in this story.

The story moves around two protagonist Vikram and Ranbir who are known for their intelligence and way of handling a case. Vikram usually ends up in a mess due to his ways. They use most unconventional ways to sort of three cases they have in hand.

The mystery intensifies as the book moves forward. The book is a page turner and the cases are not stretched. as the story moves fast there is no scope for monotony in the story. The movie is filled with action and clues are dropped in at frequent intervals. If you are a Bollywood fan, you will definitely guess the culprit and enjoy the book.
30 reviews1 follower
August 18, 2023
A smoothly flowing story with a twist all of the sudden - that's how a suspense thriller works right? Here too we have something like that. Vikram and Ranbir are investing a case and they get to know a greater conspiracy against a well known scientist. As the investigation moves further they get into a more complicated web of mysteries. The layers of cases are added to the story and in no time they are investigating 3-4 cases at a time.
I doubt it will be a movie as soon as Akshay Kumar lays a hand on this book. Full with action packed sequences from the R&AW agents, this books includes political scenarios, plotting, terrorism, India-Pakistan rivalry and cold wars. Amidst all these there is kidnapping, theft, murder, loyalty, betrayal and all other factors that makes the story interesting.
So if you are into reading suspense - thriller Bollywood masala stories, this one is for you.
Profile Image for Bookishbong  Moumita.
470 reviews130 followers
October 10, 2023
Veil of Shadows is going to be your top choice if you are looking for a Fresh Thriller Recommendation

The story starts with the arrest of a local arms dealer and the R&AW ream gets the hint of abduction of the country's top nuclear scientist and devices.

Two intelligent officers get involved in this and start to unveil more secrets about this group.

And that's how it takes you on the tour of India's critical borders to unfold the history.

From the very beginning, the plot is fast-moving and tons of surprises in every chapter.

But lots of characters often tormented my brain cells 🙃 but I can bear that because I couldn't guess where it was going until the very end!

I have read only a handful of political thrillers, this is at the top of the list so far.
Profile Image for Aditee Adhikari.
35 reviews1 follower
July 13, 2024
The country's top nuclear scientist, who possesses a unique nuclear fusion formula, is abducted. A novel overriding device, Vita, is stolen.

R&AW's top agents set out on a mission to save the country. Mystery and conspiracies weave a complex web of confusion. A man in the shadows has all the strings to pull. What will be the consequences?

This fictional espionage saga has all the elements: mystery, thrill, action, and a good plot.

The book had an interesting opening chapter, which was followed by rather slower narration. But as the story got complex, it picked up the pace and became a good page-turner.

With hope for refinement in writing style, I see this as a breath of fresh air!

If you are into spy stories or political fiction, this one is for you.
Profile Image for dunkdaft.
434 reviews34 followers
August 26, 2023
Espionage is the genre that is always an exciting read. You zip through pages and don't want to put the book down. Veil of Shadows is one such book that includes politics of the sub-continent with an unputdownable flow of the story.

Telling the tale of RAW and other agencies involved in investigation of a unique device, stacks go much higher while the players play their game from left right and centre. The author Siddharth has kept the language simple yet engrossing to keep you glued to the pages. It feels like you are watching a film unfolding in front of your eyes. Recommended for the lovers of this genre.
1 review
September 7, 2023
Siddharth Maheshwari's "Veil of Shadows" is an enthralling and enigmatic novel, skillfully blending history, suspense, and the supernatural. The book's meticulous attention to detail and intricately developed characters create a truly immersive reading journey. Although the pacing can be slow on occasions, the intricate plot and vividly imagined world ensure that readers remain captivated throughout. It's a highly recommended read, especially for those who enjoy historical fiction and paranormal thrillers.
407 reviews7 followers
September 7, 2023
The story revolves around Vikram and Ranbir as they discover a world of mystery, suspense, and unexpected twists in "Veil of Shadows" by Siddharth Maheshwari.

I highly recommend this book to thriller fans who are looking for an intriguing and thrilling journey through its pages. The plot is engaging, the writing style is intriguing, and the cover page is appropriate. Simple and lucid language enhances the reading experience.
Profile Image for The Book Times.
245 reviews9 followers
December 29, 2024
This book was a typical action movie written with ink on pages.
The writing style was amazing. I was impressed with how accurate the details were mentioned. The author did a great job in researching.
Moreover, the length of the book was appropriate for the story. There was no unnecessary drama. There was a constant switch between the frames of reference, and the author handled them very well.
I'm very excited to read the rest of the work by Mr. Siddharth. He's a gem as an Indian author.
11 reviews
September 24, 2023
A very good book. It is a political suspense thriller about arms dealers and india's top nuclear scientist and ra&w. I literally completed this book in one sitting. I started in morning and couldn't wait it has a really good suspense throughout and by evening the book was over. Loved everything about this book. One must read this one.
1 review
August 5, 2023
Veil of Shadows

The story of Indian agent who can not trust anyone when they go to rescue an Indian science and they find there is bigger game bing played.
Profile Image for Arunoday Vyas.
14 reviews1 follower
December 22, 2024
Simply the best "spy thriller" book for me.

Veil of Shadows is the second book of this series. The first one is "Lynchpin: The Best Laid Schemes of Mice & Men.".

If you want to know how our protagonist joins the R&AW. Then you should start the series from Lynchpin. Although this is totally a new beginning for both of them after lynchpin events.

Veil of Shadows is a roller coaster ride for a reader like me, who loves spy thrillers. I have no doubts that in the near future some series or movies based on this book will be made in Bollywood.

The story starts from the arrest of local arms dealer Keshav Thakur. When he was arrested, he gave some important information to India's top agency, R&AW. Also, meanwhile, the country's top nuclear scientist, Hamid Ansari, who is in possession of a unique nuclear fusion formula, is kidnapped.

I think Maheshwari has done a brilliant job in this book because of the research he has done on this highly sensitive topic and on the various government agencies, how they work, and how they deal with these catastrophes around the country. He has also done good research on the border that connects India and Myanmar and how illegally or officially (legally) weapons and men can be transported and migrate from one country to another with the help of higher echelons, which will definitely give you a real-life feeling.

This book is a page-turner from the prologue itself. If you are a spy series or movie lover, you will definitely get the goosebumps and adrenaline rush in your body from the prologue. What I love about this book is the character of Vikram; he doesn't have any emotional connection when it comes to the country. He just wants to catch the perpetrators or criminals as soon as possible, no matter who comes in between. Also shoutout for the Ranbir, who is calm and composed and analyses the situation in a very logical, analytical way.
And do not forget Naina, who has a cameo in this book. I'm just waiting for her solo mission, as Maheshwari has given a hint in this book that shows how clever and capable she is.

In the end epilogue of the book, damn man, it is just like a post-credit scene that we see in the Marvel movies. It is sure-shot best thriller book of the year for me.

At last, not to forget about the author Siddharth Maheshwari, who has done brilliant work on both his books, "Lynchpin: The Best Laid Schemes of Mice & Men" and "Veil of Shadows." I just hope he will introduce us to more such adventures of Vikram and Ranbir as soon as possible because whoever has read both the books will definitely be waiting for the next part.
Profile Image for Akshay Gupta.
104 reviews
January 5, 2024
Extremely interesting.
This is a very pleasant surprise as an Indian political and crime thriller.

The plot itself is very interesting and near a OTT limited series in the making I'd say.

A very well researched, detailed and such well articulated storyline. Great characters and depiction of extreme scenes written in an easy english making it running Iive in the mind.
Profile Image for Surbhi Amba.
67 reviews
January 5, 2026
Espionage. Secrets. National security.

If you enjoy high-octane thrillers with an Indian intelligence backdrop, Veil of Shadows deserves a spot on your TBR!

From the very first chapter, the book pulls you into a world where nothing is what it seems. A missing nuclear scientist, stolen defence technology, and rising geopolitical tension set the stage for a fast-paced race against time. The plot moves across borders, keeping the stakes high and the suspense constant.

What I loved:

1. The cinematic pacing - it reads like a spy movie playing in your head

2. Strong focus on R&AW operations, adding realism and intrigue

3. Short chapters that make it hard to put down

4. Twists that keep you guessing about who to trust

Writing Style:

The writing is crisp and straightforward, perfect for thriller lovers. It doesn't get bogged down in heavy descriptions, instead focusing on action, strategy, and suspense.

Keep in mind:

If you enjoy deep emotional arcs, this book leans more toward plot-driven storytelling rather than character introspection - but that works well for the genre.

Perfect for readers who love spy thrillers, political intrigue, and mission-based stories with an Indian context.

A gripping read that proves danger often hides behind the strongest
Profile Image for Suyogaya Awasthy .
341 reviews5 followers
October 7, 2023
• Veil of Shadows, penned by Siddharth Maheshwari, immerses readers in a gripping tale that seamlessly weaves together elements of mystery, fantasy, and profound human emotions. From the first page, Maheshwari's narrative prowess is evident, drawing readers into a world where shadows conceal more than just darkness. The protagonist, Aria, is a complex and relatable character, navigating a realm where the line between reality and illusion blurs.

• As she grapples with her own inner demons and external adversaries, the author skilfully delves into the psyche of the human condition. Aria's journey is not merely a physical one; it's a profound exploration of identity, purpose, and the enduring struggle between light and shadow. Maheshwari's world-building is nothing short of enchanting. The intricate details of the fantastical realm within the veil are vividly brought to life, creating an immersive experience for readers. The author's ability to craft such a rich and atmospheric setting contributes significantly to the book's allure.

• One of the book's notable strengths lies in its ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Veil of Shadows is a masterclass in suspense, with twists and turns that defy predictability. Maheshwari skilfully plants seed of curiosity early on, cultivating an ever-growing sense of intrigue that propels the narrative forward. The thematic depth of the book adds layers of meaning for those willing to peel back the narrative's surface.

• Themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the duality of human nature are expertly woven into the fabric of the story, providing readers with more than just a fantastical escape. While Veil of Shadows excels in many aspects, it isn't without its moments of ambiguity. Some readers may find themselves wrestling with certain unresolved plot threads, but it's a testament to Maheshwari's ability to provoke thought and leave room for interpretation.

• In conclusion, Siddharth Maheshwari's Veil of Shadows is a spellbinding journey into a world where shadows hold secrets and mysteries unravel in ways both unexpected and profound. With its compelling characters, masterful world-building, and a narrative that skilfully balances suspense and introspection, this book stands as a captivating addition to the realm of fantasy literature.
1 review
August 6, 2023
Veil of shadows by Siddharth Maheshwari

In Veil of Shadows, a compelling story that explores the world of intelligence agents ,R&AW and their unrelenting quest for national security is unveiled. This page-turning book, which was written with great attention to detail by a writer sidharth_maheshwarii who has a firm grasp of the dynamics of espionage. It takes readers on a wild ride through the different difficulties faced by spy agents.

Every character in the story was made uniquely and fabricated in a wonderful way.

Some of the quotes from the novel are :

"Life is really simple , but we insist on making it complicated. "

 "Life is not a game of poker my friend, we cannot gamble away an innocent’s life."

The turning of events took place when a prominent and intelligent Indian scientist Hamid Ansari,was kidnapped by ISI. This was a threat to  India as Hamid Ansari had all the secrets of the fission process as well as other secrets.

So in order to find the scientist the R&AW agents , Ranbir Roy and Vikram Aditya Singh started their mission.

Also an unfortunate event took place in pune where a world changing device called "VITA" was stolen . And the only one who can operate this device was shot dead. 

 Then again the adventures and challenging rides of agents started from Delhi to different parts of India as well as in neighboring countries. the writer @san…. Fabricated the story in a wonderful way . Unexpected events  took place , many  unpretentious faces revealed. Everyone was suspicious. It was very difficult to find who was mole in R&AW or in the department. It was a great threat to the Indian nation. Will Ranbir Roy, Vikram Aditya Singh and all other agents be successful in protecting the nation from the upcoming threat? Or they were the mole ? 

The story is like an interesting piece of a puzzle , you will be excited to solve it . Every piece seems impossible but all will fit in unexpected ways.  It was a very nice story, much above my expectations.  I am glad that I read this marvelous novel.

I thank @storyarkbysiddharth for writing such a wonderful novel and giving me a roller coaster ride in the fictional world.
Profile Image for Silla Maria.
2 reviews
September 22, 2023
Veil of Shadows by Siddharth Maheshwari is a gripping political thriller that blends suspense, action, politics and adventure. The plot revolves around the abduction of nuclear scientist Hamid Ansari and a stolen overriding device called Vita.

The plot is intricate and well-crafted and the narrative is filled with tension and excitement. Initially, the writing did feel a bit off but as the chapters progressed it became better. After the first few chapters I liked the pace at which the story ran.

I enjoyed the whole unpredictableness of the plot. There's always something that's about to happen and that keeps the reader eager to know more. There were also many unexpected twists and surprises that make you unable to even remotely guess what's about to happen even if you have read many thrillers.

The author has given meticulous attention to the presentation of the plot. The descriptions were so vividly detailed, that right from the start, I felt like I was watching a movie and the depiction of various incidents and the people involved adds to that movie-like experience. But in spite of it there were times when certain particulars felt a bit overkill. The different settings of India, Pakistan, Myanmar and Nepal were also portrayed well.

The writing is easy to understand and the story gives a reasonable explanation for everything which makes it realistic and reasonable. I don't read many books by Indian authors so to me the writing style did seem subpar.

The author maintains the suspense and keeps the readers guessing until the very end. The twist that comes towards the climax was unexpected and I liked how Naina got her "moment" in the end.

If you are into thrillers then do give it a try.
Profile Image for Prerna  Shambhavee .
746 reviews7 followers
November 15, 2023
In Siddharth Maheshwari's "Veil of Shadows," espionage and intrigue weave a riveting tapestry that propels readers into a high-octane narrative, pulsating with adrenaline. The story kicks off with the apprehension of an arms dealer, triggering alarms at R&AW about a potential abduction of the esteemed nuclear scientist, Hamid Ansari. As this threat looms, a coup in Myanmar and the theft of a cutting-edge device intensify the stakes.

The narrative thrusts readers into a race against time alongside R&AW’s ace operatives, Vikram Aditya Singh and Ranbir Roy, whose pursuit takes them across diverse and treacherous landscapes—from Delhi’s power nucleus to the intricate alleys of Kathmandu, the turmoil of Myanmar, the historical reverberations of Multan in Pakistan, and the lush coffee estates of south India.

Author masterfully intertwines seemingly disconnected threads of mystery, challenging Vikram and Ranbir to untangle a web of enigmas. Who manipulates these events from the shadows? Is the revered scientist, Hamid Ansari, all that he appears to be? What deeper entanglement involves Pakistan's finance minister?

The narrative’s strength lies in its unrelenting pace, hooking readers with each twist and turn. Maheshwari’s skilful storytelling conjures a world rife with power plays and clandestine operations, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats throughout the journey.

"Veil of Shadows" emerges not just as a gripping thriller but also as a potential bestseller, boasting a blend of espionage, suspense, and a rich tapestry of international intrigue. Siddharth Maheshwari’s narrative prowess shines in crafting an immersive and heart-pounding experience, leaving readers exhilarated and craving more.
273 reviews4 followers
August 7, 2023
"Veil of Shadows" takes us on a gripping journey through the political landscape of two neighboring South Asian nations, where the quest for power is ruthless and the stakes couldn't be higher. The abduction of India's leading nuclear scientist raises alarms as he becomes a pawn in a dangerous game that threatens the nation's security by exposing its nuclear secrets.

Simultaneously, the theft of the revolutionary device 'Vita' in Pune, resulting in the death of its sole operator, adds another layer of complexity to the plot. As if that's not enough, a military coup unfolds in Myanmar. In the midst of this chaos, R&AW deploys its finest agents, Vikran and Ranbir Roy, to untangle these interconnected mysteries. Vikram's cunning plan takes an unexpected turn, plunging them into a whirlwind of consequences. As they navigate through treacherous waters, the question looms: Can they rescue the scientist and restore order? And what sacrifices will they have to make along the way?

The narrative unfolds like a Bollywood blockbuster, brimming with action, drama, and a rollercoaster of twists that will keep you glued to the pages. The characters are powerfully etched, each playing a pivotal role in the unfolding story. The author's skillful narration masterfully peels back the layers of suspense, revealing intricate connections that keep readers engaged.

The shocking and unforeseen climax is a testament to the author's ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats. If you're a fan of thrillers, with a penchant for drama, suspense, and the intricate workings of intelligence agencies, "Veil of Shadows" is a must-read that delivers it all.
Profile Image for Prajwal Shettigar.
529 reviews8 followers
August 5, 2023
"Veil of Shadows" is a gripping and intricately woven espionage thriller that takes readers on a high-stakes journey through the shadows of international intelligence and covert operations. This book is authored by Siddharth Maheshwari with an evident flair for suspense, this novel keeps the reader on the edge of their seat from the very first page.

The plot weaves together multiple seemingly unrelated events, including a military coup in Myanmar and the theft of a revolutionary device known as Vita. This masterful blend of seemingly disparate elements is a testament to the author's ability to craft a compelling and engrossing narrative. As readers follow R&AW's top agents, Vikram Aditya Singh and Ranbir Roy, through a labyrinth of deceptions, they are left questioning who to trust and what lies beneath the surface of every character's actions.

The character development in "Veil of Shadows" is commendable. Vikram and Ranbir emerge as dynamic and relatable protagonists, each grappling with their own personal demons while striving to protect their country from a sinister conspiracy. The complexity of their emotions and motivations adds depth to the story, making it more than just a typical spy thriller.

As the stakes escalate and the suspense builds, readers are taken on a roller-coaster ride of espionage, deception, and unexpected revelations. The author's talent for crafting an absorbing and suspenseful narrative shines through, making "Veil of Shadows" an unforgettable addition to the genre of espionage fiction.
346 reviews11 followers
August 7, 2023
In the heart of a thrilling narrative, a distinguished Indian scientist vanishes from his own home, seemingly abducted by Pakistan to exploit his nuclear expertise. Amidst the shroud of secrecy, R&AW strategically maintains the veil over this incident, orchestrating a grand game of espionage. Meanwhile, an enigmatic tech innovation is stolen from Pune, leaving behind no traces of the perpetrators or their motives.

The stage is set for a high-stakes mission as R&AW assembles a team to untangle the complex web woven by these two major incidents. Vikram and Ranbir emerge as the frontline players, while the likes of Arvind, Parth, and Wasim Khan work tirelessly behind the scenes, orchestrating a multi-dimensional strategy.

What took me by surprise was the unexpected depth of this book. It managed to surpass my initial expectations. The narrative approach of assigning significance to every character, including Naina, defied the conventional norm where a single protagonist hogs the limelight. The cleverly orchestrated climax, involving Naina's pivotal role, added a satisfying twist to the tale.

A rating of 4.5 stars befits this enthralling plot, well-crafted writing, and thoughtfully developed characters. The story has all the makings of a captivating film, and I could easily envision it on the big screen. The lingering epilogue hints at the possibility of a sequel, leaving readers eager for more. Satya's reasoning for his escape, however, still leaves room for skepticism and contemplation.
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1,175 reviews53 followers
September 19, 2023
If you are looking for a thrilling espionage journey then look no further as
Veil of Shadows by author Siddharth is there to satisfy your reading thirst! It is a political thriller that propels readers into a world of intrigue and danger.

I won't give away too many details but here are few things that's gonna let you know, what basically it is about, that can help you decide.

The plot revolves around R&AW's urgent mission to thwart a nefarious plot involving a kidnapped nuclear scientist and a stolen cutting-edge device, adding layers of suspense. Its a tale that spans various countries and cities, whoch I really found captivating. It taking readers on a pulse-pounding journey. The vivid descriptions immerses one in the bustling streets of Kathmandu, the political turmoil in Myanmar, and the historical charm of Multan, creating a rich backdrop for the story.

The characters, especially RAW agents Vikram and Ranbir, are well-crafted and resonate with depth. Their race against time and relentless pursuit of the truth keep the readers on the edge of their seats. There are lots of twists and turns, filled with adventure and danger at every corner.

The antagonist even adds another veil of mystery, leaving readers questioning loyalties and motives.

I found the writing style had good pace and it had ability to capture my attention.


So, the story is very interesting! I feel that it will satisfy readers who like reading such genres, promising a roller coaster journey into the world of power, secrets, and espionage. Do check it out. Easily available on Amazon.
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