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The Reset: A Global Technothriller
When a daring kidnapping attempt at the NIA office fails, Special Officer Arjun is thrust into a mystery that runs deeper than he imagined. With the help of his trusted friend, Inspector Manjunath, he begins to investigate—only to be abruptly pulled off the case and assigned to a new capture Karan, a missing ISRO scientist whose disappearance could endanger the entire world.
Torn between his duty and his instincts, Arjun must race against time to find Karan—while still haunted by the shadows of those who tried to abduct him.
Was Arjun able to track down Karan before it was too late?
Did he ever discover who was behind the attempt on his life?
In this high-octane action thriller packed with twists, secrets, and adrenaline-fueled suspense, the truth is more explosive than anyone imagined.
Torn between his duty and his instincts, Arjun must race against time to find Karan—while still haunted by the shadows of those who tried to abduct him.
Was Arjun able to track down Karan before it was too late?
Did he ever discover who was behind the attempt on his life?
In this high-octane action thriller packed with twists, secrets, and adrenaline-fueled suspense, the truth is more explosive than anyone imagined.
174 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 13, 2025
3 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
September 23, 2025
‘The Reset’ is a captivating, power-packed, gripping and fast paced techno-thriller penned by Vishnu Vardhan, the new indie-thriller writer on the block. You have just got to check him out!
The book begins with a few people returning home from a hard day’s work when the unexplainable happens. Suddenly, after a near fatal accident with a car that had no driver, authorities suspect something more sinister and unusual at large in the city of India. And they were right, because this element driverless car could change the very course of the present, the future, and strangely, the past. This book is therefore not just about a particular new skill witnessed in the science of combat. This is a book about technology – advanced, deliberate and beyond anything humanity had ever attempted before, and far more than they anticipated.
Journey therefore in this novel with Arjun, KK, Karan, Raj, Alisha, Vikram, Gurmeet and others, and unlock the secret of the future that could make desperate people want to travel back and forth in time for a few second chances. Through the eyes of the main protagonist of this intriguing book Arjun, get to know what is at stake when Digital Technology takes us to the brink or as William Shakespeare would say – to the edge of the pit and then even manages to push us in!
The story of Arjun is a web of intrigue and techno-science like no other, a marvellous feat in techno-science fiction and something that I really could not put down these past three days. My favourite scenes in the book were whenever Karan started making his series of ‘elevated’ grand escapes from the NIA or National Investigation Agency. I especially loved it when he jumped ‘up’ from a moving train – that was exciting to read and savour.
Another favourite scene of mine was when Karan was hiding in a cave fast asleep and a mountain jungle tiger was stalking him. That really raised my gooseflesh and made me want to almost skip my studying to continue reading the text. The last 70 pages of this book were nerve-wrecking and gripping reads, and I finished them off in a few hours’ time. My favourite character in this book was definitely Karan, because his escapades were really making me laugh out loud. I also marvelled at the tenacity of Gurmeet especially during that tiger scene which took my breath away.
The book, as mentioned before, was engrossing, a page-turner like no other and something different from my regular science fiction themed reads. I highly recommend this techno-thriller to everyone and hope to see a sequel to this novel soon. I also hope to read more of author Vishnu Vardhan’s thrillers in the near future. He reminds me a lot about what is best among the Western Thriller writers, especially like the writings of my one-time favourite Matthew Reilly. If you’ve loved his ‘Ice Station’ and ‘Contest’ then you are going to witness that same pace here in ‘The Reset’ by talented author Vishnu Vardhan. Grab your copy of his book today!
Vishnu Vardhan easily gets 5 stars from me.
The book begins with a few people returning home from a hard day’s work when the unexplainable happens. Suddenly, after a near fatal accident with a car that had no driver, authorities suspect something more sinister and unusual at large in the city of India. And they were right, because this element driverless car could change the very course of the present, the future, and strangely, the past. This book is therefore not just about a particular new skill witnessed in the science of combat. This is a book about technology – advanced, deliberate and beyond anything humanity had ever attempted before, and far more than they anticipated.
Journey therefore in this novel with Arjun, KK, Karan, Raj, Alisha, Vikram, Gurmeet and others, and unlock the secret of the future that could make desperate people want to travel back and forth in time for a few second chances. Through the eyes of the main protagonist of this intriguing book Arjun, get to know what is at stake when Digital Technology takes us to the brink or as William Shakespeare would say – to the edge of the pit and then even manages to push us in!
The story of Arjun is a web of intrigue and techno-science like no other, a marvellous feat in techno-science fiction and something that I really could not put down these past three days. My favourite scenes in the book were whenever Karan started making his series of ‘elevated’ grand escapes from the NIA or National Investigation Agency. I especially loved it when he jumped ‘up’ from a moving train – that was exciting to read and savour.
Another favourite scene of mine was when Karan was hiding in a cave fast asleep and a mountain jungle tiger was stalking him. That really raised my gooseflesh and made me want to almost skip my studying to continue reading the text. The last 70 pages of this book were nerve-wrecking and gripping reads, and I finished them off in a few hours’ time. My favourite character in this book was definitely Karan, because his escapades were really making me laugh out loud. I also marvelled at the tenacity of Gurmeet especially during that tiger scene which took my breath away.
The book, as mentioned before, was engrossing, a page-turner like no other and something different from my regular science fiction themed reads. I highly recommend this techno-thriller to everyone and hope to see a sequel to this novel soon. I also hope to read more of author Vishnu Vardhan’s thrillers in the near future. He reminds me a lot about what is best among the Western Thriller writers, especially like the writings of my one-time favourite Matthew Reilly. If you’ve loved his ‘Ice Station’ and ‘Contest’ then you are going to witness that same pace here in ‘The Reset’ by talented author Vishnu Vardhan. Grab your copy of his book today!
Vishnu Vardhan easily gets 5 stars from me.
July 23, 2025
In The Reset, Vishnu Vardhan crafts a taut, cerebral thriller that explores the fine line between reality and illusion, memory and manipulation, freedom and control. Set in a world where technology governs not just society but the human psyche, this novel poses one urgent question: If you could start over, would you?
Just when you think you’ve figured it out, Vardhan pulls the rug from under your feet. The pacing is tight, the stakes are high, and the tension never really lets go. Fans of Black Mirror, Inception, or Shutter Island will feel right at home.
Just when you think you’ve figured it out, Vardhan pulls the rug from under your feet. The pacing is tight, the stakes are high, and the tension never really lets go. Fans of Black Mirror, Inception, or Shutter Island will feel right at home.
July 25, 2025
First of all thanks to Vishnu for providing me with the book for a honest review.
This book is about Arjun an Agent for whom the country comes first and remaining all later and Karan a failed ISRO scientist. Arjun is given a task of capturing Karan. Who is Karan? And what is his relationship with Arjun? Authors note in the starting "All the thriller movies I watched from childhood." Which shows that he loves watching such movies this book is also like al done sci-fi thriller movie. Using all latest technology and all karan makes his capture impossible. However How Arjun catch him is the story. Overall this book is a good goodreads...🙂
This book is about Arjun an Agent for whom the country comes first and remaining all later and Karan a failed ISRO scientist. Arjun is given a task of capturing Karan. Who is Karan? And what is his relationship with Arjun? Authors note in the starting "All the thriller movies I watched from childhood." Which shows that he loves watching such movies this book is also like al done sci-fi thriller movie. Using all latest technology and all karan makes his capture impossible. However How Arjun catch him is the story. Overall this book is a good goodreads...🙂
July 16, 2025
An engaging read and pretty good for a debut! Loved seeing Indian cities and landscapes come to life on the page — it’s always refreshing to read something closer to home. The plot’s interesting, though it could use a bit more scientific depth. A bit of tighter editing would’ve made it even smoother. Still, a nice pick for a relaxed bedtime read!
July 21, 2025
action starts from page one . added sci fi flavour. it's like watching a Hollywood movie .
if you like that type you can read this.
non stop action is the plus and minus of this book.
character development is needed.
if you like that type you can read this.
non stop action is the plus and minus of this book.
character development is needed.
August 21, 2025
The book offered a story I enjoyed, although at first I wasn't quite sure what the plot was going to be. That changed and then at the end there was a further revelation - I won't spoil it for others. The world is at risk but what exactly is happening and why is hard to determine by the authorities and all is not as it seems. The relationships between the main characters seems fuzzy, and deliberately so.
October 27, 2025
I picked up The Reset looking for a fast read—and what I found was so much more. From the moment the kidnapping at the NIA office goes wrong, the pace never lets up. Arjun’s race against time to uncover the truth behind a missing scientist becomes one twist after another, and I found myself glued to every page.
What impressed me most is how the tech-thriller elements merge with real emotional stakes. Yes, there’s biological peril, spies and global threats—but the heart of the story lies in Arjun’s internal struggle: his decisions, his loyalty, and his doubts. The setting in India feels lived-in and authentic, which adds a freshness to the genre.
The story ends with a punch—you feel the weight of what’s been done, the cost of choices, and you’re left wanting more. If you like your thrillers smart, fast-moving and grounded in character, this book absolutely delivers.
What impressed me most is how the tech-thriller elements merge with real emotional stakes. Yes, there’s biological peril, spies and global threats—but the heart of the story lies in Arjun’s internal struggle: his decisions, his loyalty, and his doubts. The setting in India feels lived-in and authentic, which adds a freshness to the genre.
The story ends with a punch—you feel the weight of what’s been done, the cost of choices, and you’re left wanting more. If you like your thrillers smart, fast-moving and grounded in character, this book absolutely delivers.
August 7, 2025
The Reset is a fast-paced techno-thriller that keeps you hooked from the very first chapter. With sharp writing and well-timed twists, it pulls you into a high-stakes world of espionage, intelligence, and national security. The protagonist, Arjun, is a focused and relatable officer who navigates a maze of danger with grit and strategy. What stands out most is the tight narrative—there’s no unnecessary fluff, just pure, edge-of-the-seat storytelling. The book surprises you when you least expect it and leaves you thinking long after you’re done. A strong, engaging debut that delivers action, suspense, and substance in equal measure.
A solid debut by Vishnu Vardhan Pingali that blends technology, suspense, and patriotism into a compelling read.
A solid debut by Vishnu Vardhan Pingali that blends technology, suspense, and patriotism into a compelling read.
December 12, 2025
A decent, fast-paced thriller with some nice sci-fi elements that don’t really come into their own until towards the end of the story. Some good visualisations too – I particularly liked the stalking tiger, very well described from both near and afar through eyeline, banks of monitors and thermal scans. Loved the drones (c.2045) released from the jetpack, too!
Elsewhere, I struggled a little to keep tabs on all the police and authority characters and there wasn’t a deal of relationship development – perhaps deliberate for such a fast-paced story. Lots of dynamic car/transport chases, too, if you like that sort of thing; if you don’t just persevere and you’ll be rewarded as the plot unfolds in the second half!
Overall, the story is very thought-provoking and almost leaves you wishing the heroes from the future were real!
Elsewhere, I struggled a little to keep tabs on all the police and authority characters and there wasn’t a deal of relationship development – perhaps deliberate for such a fast-paced story. Lots of dynamic car/transport chases, too, if you like that sort of thing; if you don’t just persevere and you’ll be rewarded as the plot unfolds in the second half!
Overall, the story is very thought-provoking and almost leaves you wishing the heroes from the future were real!
November 1, 2025
A well done high tech modern suspense action thriller from beginning to end. This story takes place in India, where a kidnapping was thwarted but an abduction of an earth scientist and covert espionage prevailed. There’s a yellow glowing disc stick- a cylindrical device of advanced technology. Character Arjun, a moralist needed to save the day from this global conspiracy. If this were a film I’d be at the edge of my seat. I was trying to visualize Karan hovering in mid air and the threat of a satellite detonating would be a disaster. Special affects would be something to see.
August 14, 2025
Fast-paced sci-fi thriller
This is a sci-fi suspense novel set in India involving a kidnapped scientist, time travel, and a virus that could result in WWIII. The pacing is quick with a great deal of action and unexpected plot twists.
This is a sci-fi suspense novel set in India involving a kidnapped scientist, time travel, and a virus that could result in WWIII. The pacing is quick with a great deal of action and unexpected plot twists.
November 18, 2025
A Tech Thriller with an Indian flair...
I love a good technothriller and The Reset is unlike any I've ever read. Set in India, it has a very different feel than your average western thriller. I enjoyed the aspects of a different culture coming through even in the midst of an "end of the world" type story. It builds towards a satisfying outcome.
I love a good technothriller and The Reset is unlike any I've ever read. Set in India, it has a very different feel than your average western thriller. I enjoyed the aspects of a different culture coming through even in the midst of an "end of the world" type story. It builds towards a satisfying outcome.
November 22, 2025
Vishnu Vardhan Pingali has written something that feels less like a novel and more like watching a two-hour action film compressed into 174 pages. The Reset launches with a kidnapping attempt and doesn't really stop to catch its breath after that. It's chase after chase, revelation after revelation, and the protagonist Arjun quickly realizes he's caught in something far more complicated than his original assignment suggested.
What works here is the sheer inventiveness. Pingali clearly has a knack for plotting clever twists and keeping the mechanics of the story interesting. The Indian locations—from the Western Ghats to lesser-known regions—give the book a texture you don't often find in this genre. You can tell the author knows these places, and that authenticity comes through.
My personal issue is that it seldom downshifts. After a while, the constant momentum started to feel a bit exhausting rather than exhilarating. I found myself wishing for a chapter or two where characters could just exist as people. That said, if you judge this book by what it's trying to be—a pure adrenaline-fueled action thriller set in India—then it succeeds completely. Pingali knows how to structure this kind of story, and he executes it with precision. For readers who want nonstop forward motion and don't mind sacrificing character development for pace, this delivers exactly what it promises.
Five stars for a very specific kind of thriller, done exceptionally well.
What works here is the sheer inventiveness. Pingali clearly has a knack for plotting clever twists and keeping the mechanics of the story interesting. The Indian locations—from the Western Ghats to lesser-known regions—give the book a texture you don't often find in this genre. You can tell the author knows these places, and that authenticity comes through.
My personal issue is that it seldom downshifts. After a while, the constant momentum started to feel a bit exhausting rather than exhilarating. I found myself wishing for a chapter or two where characters could just exist as people. That said, if you judge this book by what it's trying to be—a pure adrenaline-fueled action thriller set in India—then it succeeds completely. Pingali knows how to structure this kind of story, and he executes it with precision. For readers who want nonstop forward motion and don't mind sacrificing character development for pace, this delivers exactly what it promises.
Five stars for a very specific kind of thriller, done exceptionally well.
July 25, 2025
A gripping thriller, a page turner. Don't miss this if you love action thrillers.
November 12, 2025
This is a dramatic techno-military thriller set in India. The action begins immediately, with kidnappings and a mysterious technical device that can stop machines and disrupt cellular/wifi signals. One man, Karan, has developed almost superhuman powers, which seem to derive from a backpack he's wearing. His pursuer, Arjun, is a high-ranking officer in what seems to be a nationwide police or military force. Before long, the entire world is on alert due to a global threat that Karan represents.
One of the first twists in the story is that quite soon Arjun is being hunted by his own national and military forces, and he has to figure out how to move forward. A lot of the tension in the book derives from Arjun's creativity as he's being pursued.
The writing is descriptive and builds tension, though I had trouble at times putting all of the details together, as well as figuring out the importance of details even before I got to the surprising twists at the end. I felt a little disappointed as well that Arjun's female colleague, Alisha, didn't have a larger role and faded out of the action. The story could have been enriched with some male-female banter, and their conversations could have provided an unintrusive way for the author to provide a few "back story" details. Many people like a little romance with their sci-fi as well.
The dramatic conclusion of the story pulls many threads together while leaving some unanswered questions for the reader to work out on their own.
I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
One of the first twists in the story is that quite soon Arjun is being hunted by his own national and military forces, and he has to figure out how to move forward. A lot of the tension in the book derives from Arjun's creativity as he's being pursued.
The writing is descriptive and builds tension, though I had trouble at times putting all of the details together, as well as figuring out the importance of details even before I got to the surprising twists at the end. I felt a little disappointed as well that Arjun's female colleague, Alisha, didn't have a larger role and faded out of the action. The story could have been enriched with some male-female banter, and their conversations could have provided an unintrusive way for the author to provide a few "back story" details. Many people like a little romance with their sci-fi as well.
The dramatic conclusion of the story pulls many threads together while leaving some unanswered questions for the reader to work out on their own.
I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
September 26, 2025
The Reset: A Global Technothriller is one long, breathless blast. Action unfolds at breakneck pace, each adrenaline-fueled chapter raising the stakes. The style is reminiscent of Don Winslow’s gritty, razor precision, but with Tom Clancy’s geopolitical machinations. Lean and muscular prose, meticulously stripped of any excess to keep momentum going. Action is depicted in short, sharp bursts, and the technological underpinnings of the plot are well-researched and credible. Vishnu Vardhan Pingali has definitely done his homework. Every development feels carefully plotted, each detail propelling you forward.
At times, though, the lightning pace blurs character dynamics, with a large cast shifting too quickly to track. I found myself having to backtrack a page or two to figure out characters and relationships, which interrupted the novel's rapid flow (and at times had me hopelessly flailing for connections). A late narrative shift lands kind of flat, like it was added as an afterthought. Despite these structural challenges, there's plenty to like about this high-octane thriller. Recommended for readers seeking pulse-pounding action and surgical prose - but hold on tight to keep up with the ride.
At times, though, the lightning pace blurs character dynamics, with a large cast shifting too quickly to track. I found myself having to backtrack a page or two to figure out characters and relationships, which interrupted the novel's rapid flow (and at times had me hopelessly flailing for connections). A late narrative shift lands kind of flat, like it was added as an afterthought. Despite these structural challenges, there's plenty to like about this high-octane thriller. Recommended for readers seeking pulse-pounding action and surgical prose - but hold on tight to keep up with the ride.
December 7, 2025
I just finished reading The Reset and it definitely hits the ground running. It starts off with a kidnapping in Bangalore, India, which was a nice change of pace—I don't see that setting too often in these kinds of thrillers, and the descriptions of the place, people and streets felt pretty real.
The story follows a couple of operatives, Arjun and Manju, chasing down a missing scientist Karan. The tech they use is wild. Honestly, at the beginning, I thought the gadgets were way too futuristic to be believable for the timeline, but later on, the book throws in a time-travel twist that actually explains why everything is so advanced. If you like secret government toys and sci-fi spy stuff, you'll probably dig that part.
It’s a super fast read. Maybe a little too fast at times? I didn't feel like I really got to know the characters deep down because they were constantly moving from one crisis to the next. I wasn't super attached to anyone, but I was still curious to see how it would end. The action scenes are fun, almost like a comic book movie—it definitely gave me some Avengers vibes with the stakes getting higher and higher.
The writing itself is pretty simple. The dialogue felt a little stiff, and I caught a few typos, but it didn't slow me down much. It’s not a deep, complex literary book, but it’s not trying to be. It’s just a high-energy action ride with nuclear countdowns and crazy conspiracies. If you want something quick and entertaining that keeps moving, it’s a good choice.
The story follows a couple of operatives, Arjun and Manju, chasing down a missing scientist Karan. The tech they use is wild. Honestly, at the beginning, I thought the gadgets were way too futuristic to be believable for the timeline, but later on, the book throws in a time-travel twist that actually explains why everything is so advanced. If you like secret government toys and sci-fi spy stuff, you'll probably dig that part.
It’s a super fast read. Maybe a little too fast at times? I didn't feel like I really got to know the characters deep down because they were constantly moving from one crisis to the next. I wasn't super attached to anyone, but I was still curious to see how it would end. The action scenes are fun, almost like a comic book movie—it definitely gave me some Avengers vibes with the stakes getting higher and higher.
The writing itself is pretty simple. The dialogue felt a little stiff, and I caught a few typos, but it didn't slow me down much. It’s not a deep, complex literary book, but it’s not trying to be. It’s just a high-energy action ride with nuclear countdowns and crazy conspiracies. If you want something quick and entertaining that keeps moving, it’s a good choice.
September 10, 2025
The story is a thrilling journey packed with mystery, drama, and unexpected twists that will keep readers glued to the very end. Every chapter unfolds with new secrets, sharp turns, and revelations that make it nearly impossible to put down. The suspense builds steadily, weaving together moments of danger, emotional depth, and surprising connections between characters.
What makes the plot especially captivating is how each event ties seamlessly into the next, creating a rhythm of curiosity that constantly drives you forward. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, the story surprises you again, pulling you deeper into its world.
The writing strikes a balance between excitement and emotion—delivering action that keeps your pulse racing, while also exploring relationships, trust, and the cost of secrets. Whether it’s an intense cliffhanger or a quiet, emotional moment, the story captures your attention and refuses to let go.
Overall, it’s not just a fun read—it’s an immersive experience. It pulls you into a world of intrigue and suspense, making you desperate to know what happens next while savoring every detail along the way.
What makes the plot especially captivating is how each event ties seamlessly into the next, creating a rhythm of curiosity that constantly drives you forward. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, the story surprises you again, pulling you deeper into its world.
The writing strikes a balance between excitement and emotion—delivering action that keeps your pulse racing, while also exploring relationships, trust, and the cost of secrets. Whether it’s an intense cliffhanger or a quiet, emotional moment, the story captures your attention and refuses to let go.
Overall, it’s not just a fun read—it’s an immersive experience. It pulls you into a world of intrigue and suspense, making you desperate to know what happens next while savoring every detail along the way.
October 2, 2025
The Reset by Vishnu Vardhan Pingali is an ambitious, high-octane technothriller that barely pauses for breath. From the very first failed kidnapping attempt, the pace rockets forward, throwing Special Officer Arjun into a chase for missing ISRO scientist Karan, with global consequences at stake. It’s got everything you’d want in a modern thriller—espionage, conspiracy, shadowy tech, and a ticking-clock urgency that makes it feel cinematic.
The best part is the energy. The short, sharp chapters feel like action set-pieces ripped from a big-budget film. The research into the technology is solid, and the Indian setting gives it a fresh backdrop that makes it stand out from the more familiar Euro-American fare.
That said, it isn’t perfect. The cast is large and sometimes hard to keep straight, and character depth takes a backseat to plot momentum. There are also a few typos, occasional clunky phrasing, and the dialogue can feel like filler. But if you’re here for heart-pounding action and global intrigue, you won’t mind.
A thrilling, flawed but highly entertaining read. Fans of Tom Clancy, Lee Child, or even Bollywood action films will find plenty to enjoy.
The best part is the energy. The short, sharp chapters feel like action set-pieces ripped from a big-budget film. The research into the technology is solid, and the Indian setting gives it a fresh backdrop that makes it stand out from the more familiar Euro-American fare.
That said, it isn’t perfect. The cast is large and sometimes hard to keep straight, and character depth takes a backseat to plot momentum. There are also a few typos, occasional clunky phrasing, and the dialogue can feel like filler. But if you’re here for heart-pounding action and global intrigue, you won’t mind.
A thrilling, flawed but highly entertaining read. Fans of Tom Clancy, Lee Child, or even Bollywood action films will find plenty to enjoy.
October 18, 2025
Fast-paced and brilliant!
The Reset pulled me in from the moment Special Officer Arjun stepped off the late-night flight into the shadows of Bangalore. What begins as a routine night spirals into a failed kidnapping, a vanished ISRO scientist, and an energetic race against time.
Pingali’s writing is taut, visual, and relentless. You can almost feel the camera angles shifting as the story moves from the sterile calm of airports to the chaos of lockdowns, covert operations, espionage, and technology.
The Indian setting adds a distinctive texture - familiar streets turned into battlegrounds of intelligence and betrayal.
The plot twists come hard and fast, with layers of conspiracy, sabotage, and psychological tension. Arjun is torn between duty and instinct, haunted by the ghosts of near-death and deception. The scenes between him and Inspector Manjunath give the story its human pulse, balancing action with loyalty, doubt, and the fragile line between heroism and obsession.
An exhilarating read that kept me up past midnight.
The Reset pulled me in from the moment Special Officer Arjun stepped off the late-night flight into the shadows of Bangalore. What begins as a routine night spirals into a failed kidnapping, a vanished ISRO scientist, and an energetic race against time.
Pingali’s writing is taut, visual, and relentless. You can almost feel the camera angles shifting as the story moves from the sterile calm of airports to the chaos of lockdowns, covert operations, espionage, and technology.
The Indian setting adds a distinctive texture - familiar streets turned into battlegrounds of intelligence and betrayal.
The plot twists come hard and fast, with layers of conspiracy, sabotage, and psychological tension. Arjun is torn between duty and instinct, haunted by the ghosts of near-death and deception. The scenes between him and Inspector Manjunath give the story its human pulse, balancing action with loyalty, doubt, and the fragile line between heroism and obsession.
An exhilarating read that kept me up past midnight.
January 2, 2026
The writer is proficient at creating action scenes, and some of the story ideas and elements are interesting. There’s also a strong element in the overarching idea of a technological reset that is genuinely reflected in the global public. Anyone who grew up without constant updates, social media, and a 24/7 surveillance state knows that technological progress no longer necessarily means progress for the human experience. The idea of resetting technology so it serves people instead of power structures is a compelling one.
I wanted to see more character development. By the end, I didn’t have a strong feel for the characters, and their interactions often had a very 1980s action-flick quality. I also wanted deeper immersion in the world of Southern India—one of the main reasons I bought the book. I traveled in the region 25 years ago and didn’t get the feeling I was returning there through the story.
The book could also be synthesized further (shortened). It felt repetitive at times and would have benefited from more editing.
I wanted to see more character development. By the end, I didn’t have a strong feel for the characters, and their interactions often had a very 1980s action-flick quality. I also wanted deeper immersion in the world of Southern India—one of the main reasons I bought the book. I traveled in the region 25 years ago and didn’t get the feeling I was returning there through the story.
The book could also be synthesized further (shortened). It felt repetitive at times and would have benefited from more editing.
July 11, 2025
The Reset is a sharp, high-tension thriller that drops readers straight into a world where intelligence, technology, and power intersect. When a key scientist disappears and the NIA is thrown into turmoil, Special Officer Arjun must navigate a trail of deception, sabotage, and silent threats. The stakes rise with every chapter, but so does the suspense.
Vardhan’s writing style is brisk and cinematic. He wastes no time with filler, focusing instead on pace, plot, and the mounting urgency of Arjun’s mission. The story is steeped in contemporary relevance, with just enough technical depth to feel credible without bogging down the reader.
What stands out most is the novel’s energy. It’s not just a race against time—it’s a collision of ideals, hidden agendas, and raw determination.
A lean, adrenaline-fueled debut that feels both timely and timeless. The Reset marks Vishnu Vardhan as a name to watch in Indian thriller fiction.
Vardhan’s writing style is brisk and cinematic. He wastes no time with filler, focusing instead on pace, plot, and the mounting urgency of Arjun’s mission. The story is steeped in contemporary relevance, with just enough technical depth to feel credible without bogging down the reader.
What stands out most is the novel’s energy. It’s not just a race against time—it’s a collision of ideals, hidden agendas, and raw determination.
A lean, adrenaline-fueled debut that feels both timely and timeless. The Reset marks Vishnu Vardhan as a name to watch in Indian thriller fiction.
September 1, 2025
This is a high-octane action thriller packed with twists, secrets, and adrenaline-fueled suspense. At the end, the truth is more explosive than I imagined. There’s a failed kidnapping that plunges Special Officer Arjun into a mystery that runs deeper than he imagined. When he begins to investigate with the help of his trusted colleague, Inspector Manjunath, he gets pulled off the case and assigned to a new mission: capture Karan. Karan is a missing ISRO scientist whose disappearance spells trouble for the entire world. Torn between his duty and his instincts, Arjun races against time to find Karan, but he is still haunted by the failed attempt to abduct him. Two small things gave me some trouble. First, the names were outside my comfort zone and difficult for me to get used to. Second, I found the language a little too flowery, too many adjectives and adverbs, like the author is trying too hard. However, the story and pace are compelling, and I strongly recommend this book.
September 10, 2025
From the very first chapter, this story pulls you into a world of danger and deception. Special Officer Arjun is a compelling lead, caught between duty and instinct as he chases a mystery that keeps getting bigger and more dangerous. The failed kidnapping at the NIA office sets the tone perfectly, and from there, the pace never slows.
The friendship between Arjun and Inspector Manjunath gives the story heart, balancing the nonstop action with loyalty and trust. The hunt for the missing ISRO scientist Karan adds a sense of urgency, and the stakes feel incredibly real as each chapter raises new questions.
What impressed me most was how the author weaves together suspense, emotion, and global intrigue. The plot is layered with secrets and twists that kept me guessing right up to the end. Fans of international thrillers and action-packed mysteries will find this an exciting and satisfying read.
The friendship between Arjun and Inspector Manjunath gives the story heart, balancing the nonstop action with loyalty and trust. The hunt for the missing ISRO scientist Karan adds a sense of urgency, and the stakes feel incredibly real as each chapter raises new questions.
What impressed me most was how the author weaves together suspense, emotion, and global intrigue. The plot is layered with secrets and twists that kept me guessing right up to the end. Fans of international thrillers and action-packed mysteries will find this an exciting and satisfying read.
November 7, 2025
Didn’t plan to read another tech thriller this month, but the premise pulled me in. I expected a simple “virus-out-of-control” plot, but it turned into something much bigger — a global puzzle that mixes science, politics, and time itself. The tone shifts from high-tech chases to quiet dread, and by the halfway point I couldn’t look away.
It’s a full novel, written in sharp, cinematic scenes — every chapter feels like a cut from a movie, packed with drone feeds, code words, and tense silences. Beneath all the noise, though, there’s something human — regret, ambition, the idea of fixing the world by breaking it first.
I liked how the story circles back on itself, especially the confrontation near the end; it ties the whole timeline together without spoon-feeding. A few transitions are abrupt, but it keeps the tension real.
If you like grounded sci-fi with a moral edge — more “what if we went too far” than “aliens and gadgets” — this one’s worth the ride.
It’s a full novel, written in sharp, cinematic scenes — every chapter feels like a cut from a movie, packed with drone feeds, code words, and tense silences. Beneath all the noise, though, there’s something human — regret, ambition, the idea of fixing the world by breaking it first.
I liked how the story circles back on itself, especially the confrontation near the end; it ties the whole timeline together without spoon-feeding. A few transitions are abrupt, but it keeps the tension real.
If you like grounded sci-fi with a moral edge — more “what if we went too far” than “aliens and gadgets” — this one’s worth the ride.
December 2, 2025
The Reset takes you straight into the action with no unnecessary character introductions. The first chapter sucks you in and leaves you mystified. What just happened? Car chases, motorcycle chases, helicopter chases – even a tiger chase. The author uses every letter and word to create an ongoing action-packed suspense. But who are all the characters, really? We get a lot of first names and not much context. I miss a little more substance here. Who is Arjun, KK and Karan other than role players in a continuous stunt scene? And the mystic tech – drones, lasers and tranquilizer darts? This short novel reminds me more of a film script than a thriller. That being said, I really enjoyed the mystery and couldn’t put the book down. I really had to know who these futuristic characters where and why all this mayhem took place. If you like movies such as Terminator or Back to the future this book provides quite a few hours of great entertainment.
September 1, 2025
Arjun and Karan are bound in a constantly reversing cat-and-mouse chase across India. Beginning as a techno-thriller, the story grows in scope to full on sci-fi, including some unexplained technology. The author chooses to keep the focus on the frenetic pace and the urgent plot. Overall, this was the aspect of the writing that was done the best. This novella has kinetic action, cinematic writing, and relentlessly rising stakes.
However, I got the impression it was typed up the same way, in a life and death race for the future of mankind. It can get a little repetitive with most of the short chapters starting with a vehicle, and a little dry with that vehicle being given more consideration than the character driving it. The dialogue is the weakest aspect of the writing, not terrible but largely superfluous. There are noticeable typos.
However, I got the impression it was typed up the same way, in a life and death race for the future of mankind. It can get a little repetitive with most of the short chapters starting with a vehicle, and a little dry with that vehicle being given more consideration than the character driving it. The dialogue is the weakest aspect of the writing, not terrible but largely superfluous. There are noticeable typos.
September 6, 2025
The Reset is a good book with some flaws as well. It's the story of an Indian intelligence agent who along with his team tries to save the world satellite network from a virus planted by a rouge ISRO scientist.
The 2 good things about this book are as below: -
1. Story is fast paced and you want to know what happens next.
2. Set up in a Indianized background is fresh thing to read.
The 2 major flaws with the book are as below: -
1. The book is short. Due to short length, it does not do justice with any characters. The characters feel flimsy since not much background information is shared and we are not able to connect with them emotionally.
2. I didn't like the ending part. It could have been better moulded and does not do justice to initial buildup of the story. It might have worked but the book length cramped the potential for a great ending.
The 2 good things about this book are as below: -
1. Story is fast paced and you want to know what happens next.
2. Set up in a Indianized background is fresh thing to read.
The 2 major flaws with the book are as below: -
1. The book is short. Due to short length, it does not do justice with any characters. The characters feel flimsy since not much background information is shared and we are not able to connect with them emotionally.
2. I didn't like the ending part. It could have been better moulded and does not do justice to initial buildup of the story. It might have worked but the book length cramped the potential for a great ending.
September 13, 2025
As someone who devours series like Gray Man and Orphan X, I liked The Reset. It has all the tension, action, and high stakes I look for in a thriller, but with the refreshing twist of being set in India. The mix of an attempted kidnapping, a missing ISRO scientist, and the pull between duty and betrayal kept me hooked from the very first page.
The pacing is relentless, the action smart, and the tech/science details believable without ever bogging the story down. Arjun makes for a compelling lead, and the twists kept me guessing right up to the end. Some secondary characters could have been fleshed out a little more, but overall this was a sharp, fast, and exciting debut.
I noticed some typos and the formatting could be improved, but all in all it was an entertaining read.
If you’re into intelligent, high-octane thrillers with a unique setting, this is absolutely worth your time.
The pacing is relentless, the action smart, and the tech/science details believable without ever bogging the story down. Arjun makes for a compelling lead, and the twists kept me guessing right up to the end. Some secondary characters could have been fleshed out a little more, but overall this was a sharp, fast, and exciting debut.
I noticed some typos and the formatting could be improved, but all in all it was an entertaining read.
If you’re into intelligent, high-octane thrillers with a unique setting, this is absolutely worth your time.
September 28, 2025
"The Reset: A Global Technothriller" is built on an ambitious premise, weaving a complex web of technological catastrophe that feels timely. The author focuses on crafting intricate plot mechanics and exploring the far-reaching consequences of a world suddenly thrown into digital darkness. However, the narrative's heavy focus on its expansive, high-concept plot comes at the expense of character development, leaving protagonists feeling underdeveloped and more like cogs in the thriller machine than fully fleshed-out individuals. While the pacing is generally brisk, it is periodically weighed down by dense exposition that slows the momentum. Ultimately, it’s a read that fulfills its "global technothriller" promise in scope, but its human element is not deeply explored, which prevents the stakes from feeling truly personal.
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