The Cantonment Conspiracy

by Manoj Mukund Naravane

Two officers fresh out of the National Defence Academy (NDA) get posted at a laid-back military garrison on the banks of the Ganga River in Western UP. Lieutenant Rohit Verma comes from an army background, knows the ropes and generally has it easy. Lieutenant Renuka Khatri, on the other hand, is from a civilian background, and from the first batch of girl cadets admitted to the NDA. They both have to prove that they are worthy of being army officers. During a welcome party at the officers’ mess, one of the ladies is assaulted and the needle of suspicion falls on Rohit. A court of inquiry is ordered, with Renuka unearthing crucial evidence that points to more sinister connections.

When one of the witnesses due to depose before the court is murdered, it not only absolves Rohit but also starts the hunt for the real killer. Initially sceptical, the commandant throws his weight behind the investigation, which as it unfolds, reveals similarities to events rooted in the past. In their hunt for the suspect, Rohit and Renuka are assisted by Rehmat, a local village girl. The trio of Rohit-Renuka-Rehmat (RRR) must race against time to catch the killer before he can strike again.

240 pages, Paperback

Published May 31, 2025

Reviews

[Sabarish · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Cantonment Conspiracy (A Military Thriller)
by General Manoj Naravane
Genre: Crime Thriller
First Print: 2025
Publisher: Penguin Random House India
Plot:
The story revolves around a shocking attack on an officer’s wife during a party held inside a cantonment. Rohan, the protagonist, is falsely accused as he happens to be at the wrong place at the wrong time. As the investigation unfolds, he must prove his innocence while trying to uncover the real culprit behind the crime.
Review:
The plot is gripping and keeps the reader engaged. However, the story could have been more impactful if the author had specified the year in which the events take place. Additionally, character development needed more depth—particularly the relationship between Rohan and Renuka, which remains somewhat confusing until the climax.
Given the author’s military background, the depiction of cantonment life and the daily routines of army personnel is detailed and realistic. While this adds authenticity, the story itself does not strongly connect to the idea of a “conspiracy” as suggested by the title. The climax, unfortunately, feels underwhelming compared to the buildup.
The use of English is simple and easy to follow, making the book suitable for new and beginner readers.
About the Author:
General Manoj Naravane is the 28th Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army and an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Indian Military Academy (IMA). This is his second book.

[rio · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing book, couldn’t keep it down
it’s a short and crisp book, so no, “i still have to finish the book, ugh!”
the plot was spectacular
i also learnt a lot about the indian army

i like the fact that the author keeps reminding us of what occupation each character holds
there are a lot of characters, so him reminding us again and again is a pretty good move, in my opinion

i’ve not read a book so good in a while, love it!
a little confused about the end- rehmat? what about renuka? but still an amazing read
would recommend it for sure

xxxx
rio

[Utkarsh Kumar · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s a murder mystery thriller setup in the backdrop of the Sikh Rifles regiment as two young recruits unravel the mysteries across space and time. The plot is interesting and the continuous revealing of hints keeps the reader hooked till the end. The writing is lucid and a breeze to read. I personally finished the book in two sittings.

The author’s military background has led to a rich description of the cantonment and the military culture. I look forward to subsequent books starring Rohit and Renuka. Also, their chemistry is heartwarming, I wish it leads somewhere.

[Vedaant · Rating 1 out of 5]

A decent attempt at writing a story.

[Nidhi Srivastava · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing plot, it kept me glued to the book until the end.

[Ishika Kohli · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short interesting whodunnit that's perfect for when you're on a short plane ride. Overall enjoyable read and my grandfather (retired army personnel) loved it.