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Spectres of Vengeance: When Justice is Elusive, Vengeance Becomes the Law
In a world where shadows conceal the truth and power is the ultimate prize, Amitabh Mehta, India’s resolute chief of intelligence, stands firm against corruption and terror.
Haunted by the legacy of the IC 814 hijacking, Amitabh has tirelessly safeguarded his nation through decades of combating terrorism, from the Khalistan movement to the serial bombings in Bombay and relentless attacks in Kashmir. Frustrated by indecisive politicians, he finds hope in a new prime minister—a charismatic strongman from Maharashtra with unprecedented public support.
As an Indian Air Force base is attacked, Amitabh proposes a bold kill India’s enemies wherever they are. With the prime minister’s sanction, Amitabh spearheads a covert assassination programme, targeting high-priority enemies across the globe. However, a failed attempt on one of India’s most wanted terrorists reveals a mole within the government, leading to a frantic operation to capture the elusive terrorist. In their pursuit, they uncover a hidden power undermining India from within. Can this clandestine force be dismantled?
Haunted by the legacy of the IC 814 hijacking, Amitabh has tirelessly safeguarded his nation through decades of combating terrorism, from the Khalistan movement to the serial bombings in Bombay and relentless attacks in Kashmir. Frustrated by indecisive politicians, he finds hope in a new prime minister—a charismatic strongman from Maharashtra with unprecedented public support.
As an Indian Air Force base is attacked, Amitabh proposes a bold kill India’s enemies wherever they are. With the prime minister’s sanction, Amitabh spearheads a covert assassination programme, targeting high-priority enemies across the globe. However, a failed attempt on one of India’s most wanted terrorists reveals a mole within the government, leading to a frantic operation to capture the elusive terrorist. In their pursuit, they uncover a hidden power undermining India from within. Can this clandestine force be dismantled?
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2025
5 people want to read
About the author
Tarun Mehrishi
2 books1 followerA trained lawyer who spent less years practicing law than studying it, before becoming a sports marketing professional, who loved his job for a decade.
Finally found my calling as a writer with my first book 'The Portrait of a Secret' and support my passion through my own venture in the electric vehicles space.
Finally found my calling as a writer with my first book 'The Portrait of a Secret' and support my passion through my own venture in the electric vehicles space.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
November 17, 2025
" Spectres of Vengeance" takes you deep into a world where loyalty is a burden, truth is always shifting, and the line between saving a nation and losing yourself becomes frighteningly thin. Through Amitabh , Tarun Meherishi shows the quiet exhaustion behind bravery — the kind that comes from fighting enemies both outside the country and inside the system.
The story gains pace after a brutal attack, when Amitabh suggests a path that is as bold as it is dangerous: eliminate the threats wherever they hide. What follows isn’t just action , it’s a slow, gripping unraveling of a man who believes he has no choice but to push forward. Every chapter tightens the tension, making you question where justice ends and vengeance begins.
My experience with the book:
Reading this felt like walking beside Amitabh, watching him carry a weight most of us can’t even imagine. I kept pausing, not because the book was heavy, but because it was real in a way that makes you think. His desperation, his fierce loyalty, and the silence of what he couldn’t say stayed with me long after I closed the book. It made me reflect not just on the story, but on the unseen faces who protect a nation.
A gripping, unsettling, and deeply engaging read perfect for anyone who loves political thrillers that hit the heart just as much as the mind.
The story gains pace after a brutal attack, when Amitabh suggests a path that is as bold as it is dangerous: eliminate the threats wherever they hide. What follows isn’t just action , it’s a slow, gripping unraveling of a man who believes he has no choice but to push forward. Every chapter tightens the tension, making you question where justice ends and vengeance begins.
My experience with the book:
Reading this felt like walking beside Amitabh, watching him carry a weight most of us can’t even imagine. I kept pausing, not because the book was heavy, but because it was real in a way that makes you think. His desperation, his fierce loyalty, and the silence of what he couldn’t say stayed with me long after I closed the book. It made me reflect not just on the story, but on the unseen faces who protect a nation.
A gripping, unsettling, and deeply engaging read perfect for anyone who loves political thrillers that hit the heart just as much as the mind.
January 8, 2026
Hey cuties I'm back again with another review 🤍
Spectres of Vengeance by Tarun Mehrishi is a fast-paced political thriller that dives deep into India's intelligence world.
In this book, you'll read about terrorism, revenge, patriotism and the difficult choices people with more power have to make. The story feels powerful and raw, especially because it's inspired by real events.
This book has action, conspiracies and lots of suspense that you won't be able to put this book down midway😭.
The writing of the book is sharp, cinematic and fully detailed making the scenes feel real and impactful.
FINAL VERDICT
If you're someone who loves political stories with a mix of thriller and intelligence agencies , this book is worth reading fs.
Spectres of Vengeance by Tarun Mehrishi is a fast-paced political thriller that dives deep into India's intelligence world.
In this book, you'll read about terrorism, revenge, patriotism and the difficult choices people with more power have to make. The story feels powerful and raw, especially because it's inspired by real events.
This book has action, conspiracies and lots of suspense that you won't be able to put this book down midway😭.
The writing of the book is sharp, cinematic and fully detailed making the scenes feel real and impactful.
FINAL VERDICT
If you're someone who loves political stories with a mix of thriller and intelligence agencies , this book is worth reading fs.
December 8, 2025
Spectres of Vengeance grabbed my attention because it isnt only spy thriller after reading it actually felt uncomfortably close to the headlines which i have grown up hearing. The author blends true events like the 1984 Amritsar riot tensions, the Mumbai blasts and the IC814 hijack into a fictional world that still feels painfully familiar. Right in the middle of all this chaos stands Amitabh Mehta who was India’s smartest and most exhausted spymaster.
What I loved the most is that Amitabh isn’t shown as a flashy hero. He’s tired, angry and done watching the country bleed. When a new Prime Minister Akhilesh Tambe finally gives him the freedom the system never allowed Amitabh decides to do the one thing he’s been dreaming of for decades that was to end the six people who have fueled decades of violence. No paperwork, no committees just getting the job done across borders and continents before the system catches up.
The book moves fast but not in a blink. I felt like I was slowly walking into a tunnel where the light keeps getting dimmer but deeper. The scenes which were based in Amritsar, Mumbai and Kathmandu felt true that I didn't even realize when the fiction turned to history. The tension, secrecy, intelligence, political pulling of strings everything felt believable as it’s written with honesty.
What surprised me most was the emotional weight. Behind every mission planned by Amitabh there’s a quiet pain of watching country suffering of losing people and of being powerless. That the emotional thread which makes the book more than just a thriller. It’s also a reflection on the price people inside the intelligence world silently pay. The moral dilemma is constant
Where does justice end and vengeance begin? And is there even a difference anymore?
Overall Spectres of Vengeance is sharp, cinematic, morally messy and extremely addictive read. It has questions for system, politics and even the idea of patriotism itself. If you love political thrillers that feel real where the danger doesn’t stay on the page but you can feel then this one is worth picking up.
What I loved the most is that Amitabh isn’t shown as a flashy hero. He’s tired, angry and done watching the country bleed. When a new Prime Minister Akhilesh Tambe finally gives him the freedom the system never allowed Amitabh decides to do the one thing he’s been dreaming of for decades that was to end the six people who have fueled decades of violence. No paperwork, no committees just getting the job done across borders and continents before the system catches up.
The book moves fast but not in a blink. I felt like I was slowly walking into a tunnel where the light keeps getting dimmer but deeper. The scenes which were based in Amritsar, Mumbai and Kathmandu felt true that I didn't even realize when the fiction turned to history. The tension, secrecy, intelligence, political pulling of strings everything felt believable as it’s written with honesty.
What surprised me most was the emotional weight. Behind every mission planned by Amitabh there’s a quiet pain of watching country suffering of losing people and of being powerless. That the emotional thread which makes the book more than just a thriller. It’s also a reflection on the price people inside the intelligence world silently pay. The moral dilemma is constant
Where does justice end and vengeance begin? And is there even a difference anymore?
Overall Spectres of Vengeance is sharp, cinematic, morally messy and extremely addictive read. It has questions for system, politics and even the idea of patriotism itself. If you love political thrillers that feel real where the danger doesn’t stay on the page but you can feel then this one is worth picking up.
December 15, 2025
This is the best book I have read this year, reading it just after watching Dhurandhar made it make more sense. I don’t know if the things described in the book happened in real or not but respect for the people who work so much without caring for their life has risen way beyond possible.
The people who are actually unsung heroes of our country are the one that truly deserve all the praise and their families deserve more security and money from the government atleast more than what the politicians get and enjoy at the risk of other people’s lives.
This is the book about how the intelligence agency of our country plays the most important role in saving our country and the people’s lives without worrying about their own lives. I am not saying Army don’t deserve the praise they receive but the spy network and the mastermind behind the whole operations do deserve more praise than they get. The people who sacrifice their lives without expecting anything in return are the real heroes that deserve any and every praise they are given.
The bokk has many incidences that shows hoe people are affected due to some people’s never-ending greed for money, power and fame. The people who just want their will to be forced on other people not caring how its going to affect the people of the country do deserve to die in the most horrendous way possible.
The mind behind all the security and safety of the country has to be way sharp than we people think, as shown in the book, Amitabh has been planning to take the most awaited revenge from not only external but internal enemies too is the most patient person I have read about. Many incidences show how the silence of the government to many attacks only led to the terrorists being encouraged to do more harm to our country.
If you believe that the government do nothing to protect you now, you should read the book what is the difference between being subdues by the terrorists and being the oine to fight back with double force even after taking a step back.
The people who are actually unsung heroes of our country are the one that truly deserve all the praise and their families deserve more security and money from the government atleast more than what the politicians get and enjoy at the risk of other people’s lives.
This is the book about how the intelligence agency of our country plays the most important role in saving our country and the people’s lives without worrying about their own lives. I am not saying Army don’t deserve the praise they receive but the spy network and the mastermind behind the whole operations do deserve more praise than they get. The people who sacrifice their lives without expecting anything in return are the real heroes that deserve any and every praise they are given.
The bokk has many incidences that shows hoe people are affected due to some people’s never-ending greed for money, power and fame. The people who just want their will to be forced on other people not caring how its going to affect the people of the country do deserve to die in the most horrendous way possible.
The mind behind all the security and safety of the country has to be way sharp than we people think, as shown in the book, Amitabh has been planning to take the most awaited revenge from not only external but internal enemies too is the most patient person I have read about. Many incidences show how the silence of the government to many attacks only led to the terrorists being encouraged to do more harm to our country.
If you believe that the government do nothing to protect you now, you should read the book what is the difference between being subdues by the terrorists and being the oine to fight back with double force even after taking a step back.
November 29, 2025
Spectres Of Vengeance by Tarun Mehrishi is a thriller with espionage and historical roots that takes the readers to some of the most horrific times the nation has witnessed post-independence—the 1984 Amritsar riots with the demands of Khalistan, the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts, and the 1999 IC814 hijack. Amitabh Mehta, India's deadliest spymaster, has witnessed all of these incidents closely and has had enough of it and wants to avenge it at its roots. When a new charismatic Prime Minister, Akhilesh Tambe, is elected, he finally gets the opportunity for which he had waited for decades—to eliminate six high-value targets across three continents. But when the stakes are so high, the risks would be bigger than anything. Will he be able to manage it? Read the book to find out.
As someone who has read a couple of espionage books only before this, to say I was hooked would be an understatement. Though I struggled a little in the beginning with a lot of characters and timelines, once the foundation was established, it was addictive and kept me on the edge till the end, and it didn't disappoint.
Mehrishi finds a perfect balance between the thrill of espionage and the drama of politics and politicians, which, in case of imbalance, sucks the joy out of the story. When the facts behind the real incidents are well known to the people and the person involved is again well known, it becomes especially important for an author to not only engage the readers in the story but also present things that they don't expect, and Mehrishi excels in it.
The characterization of Amitabh and Akhilesh, along with all the characters involved, was detailed and made the readers invested in their journey and the moral dilemma they face. Though I would have liked to see more of their stories, I can also see that it could have taken the pace out of the story. And thus I hope to get to see more of them soon.
As someone who has read a couple of espionage books only before this, to say I was hooked would be an understatement. Though I struggled a little in the beginning with a lot of characters and timelines, once the foundation was established, it was addictive and kept me on the edge till the end, and it didn't disappoint.
Mehrishi finds a perfect balance between the thrill of espionage and the drama of politics and politicians, which, in case of imbalance, sucks the joy out of the story. When the facts behind the real incidents are well known to the people and the person involved is again well known, it becomes especially important for an author to not only engage the readers in the story but also present things that they don't expect, and Mehrishi excels in it.
The characterization of Amitabh and Akhilesh, along with all the characters involved, was detailed and made the readers invested in their journey and the moral dilemma they face. Though I would have liked to see more of their stories, I can also see that it could have taken the pace out of the story. And thus I hope to get to see more of them soon.
December 20, 2025
“Spectres of Vengeance” by Tarun Mehrishi is one of those books that grabs you early and doesn’t loosen its hold until the very end. From the first few chapters, the pace is relentless, and the story pulls you straight into a world where power, secrecy, and national security come at a heavy personal cost.
At the heart of the novel is Amitabh Mehta, India’s chief of intelligence—a man who feels larger than life yet deeply shaped by the past. His experiences with events like the IC 814 hijacking, the Bombay bombings, and years of counter-terror operations give his character weight and credibility. Amitabh is the kind of protagonist who commands attention the moment he steps into a room, not just because of his authority, but because of the quiet certainty with which he operates. His global connections and the calculated revenge he orchestrates truly show how powerful—and dangerous—he can be.
What I really appreciated was how seamlessly the book blends real historical events with fiction, making everything feel disturbingly believable. The action sequences are sharp and gripping, adding urgency without feeling overdone. As the plot unfolds and a mole within the government is exposed, the tension rises beautifully, keeping you constantly on edge.
The ending was especially satisfying, with justice finally catching up to the traitors who worked from within the shadows.
Overall, “Spectres of Vengeance” is a fast-paced, engaging thriller that delivers both action and substance. It’s a compelling read for anyone who enjoys political intrigue, realistic storytelling, and the idea that sometimes, justice has to be fought for in the dark.
At the heart of the novel is Amitabh Mehta, India’s chief of intelligence—a man who feels larger than life yet deeply shaped by the past. His experiences with events like the IC 814 hijacking, the Bombay bombings, and years of counter-terror operations give his character weight and credibility. Amitabh is the kind of protagonist who commands attention the moment he steps into a room, not just because of his authority, but because of the quiet certainty with which he operates. His global connections and the calculated revenge he orchestrates truly show how powerful—and dangerous—he can be.
What I really appreciated was how seamlessly the book blends real historical events with fiction, making everything feel disturbingly believable. The action sequences are sharp and gripping, adding urgency without feeling overdone. As the plot unfolds and a mole within the government is exposed, the tension rises beautifully, keeping you constantly on edge.
The ending was especially satisfying, with justice finally catching up to the traitors who worked from within the shadows.
Overall, “Spectres of Vengeance” is a fast-paced, engaging thriller that delivers both action and substance. It’s a compelling read for anyone who enjoys political intrigue, realistic storytelling, and the idea that sometimes, justice has to be fought for in the dark.
January 10, 2026
This one is a fast-paced political thriller that feels irresistibly real. The story dives deep into the world of intelligence agencies, terrorism, and the difficult choices made by them to protect a nation. It follows Amitabh Mehta, India’s Chief of Intelligence, a man shaped by years of loss, pressure, and silent battles fought behind the scenes.
In starting, the book was a bit slow but the plot gained momentum after a major attack on an Indian Air Force base, which became the trigger for a covert operation known as OPERATION VAJRA. What follows is a tense and gripping journey targeting India’s most dangerous enemies, both outside and within the country ( which are more dangerous). The book does a strong job of showing how patience, long-term planning, and difficult moral decisions play a role in the security of a nation.
One of the strongest aspects of the novel is how real events are woven into the fictional storyline.Which is quite mind boggling. This makes the tension feel believable and the stakes much higher. The political pressure, internal betrayal, and the presence of a mole inside the system keep the suspense alive throughout. Amitabh’s personal frustration with political silence and delayed action adds emotional depth to his character.
The writing is sharp and engaging, and the pacing keeps you hooked. Beyond action and strategy, the book highlights the unseen sacrifices made by intelligence officers who work without recognition or reward.
This book is strongly for readers who enjoy realistic political thrillers with lots of emotions and intense suspense. Kudos to the author for bringing such an emotional and sensitive topic to highlight.
In starting, the book was a bit slow but the plot gained momentum after a major attack on an Indian Air Force base, which became the trigger for a covert operation known as OPERATION VAJRA. What follows is a tense and gripping journey targeting India’s most dangerous enemies, both outside and within the country ( which are more dangerous). The book does a strong job of showing how patience, long-term planning, and difficult moral decisions play a role in the security of a nation.
One of the strongest aspects of the novel is how real events are woven into the fictional storyline.Which is quite mind boggling. This makes the tension feel believable and the stakes much higher. The political pressure, internal betrayal, and the presence of a mole inside the system keep the suspense alive throughout. Amitabh’s personal frustration with political silence and delayed action adds emotional depth to his character.
The writing is sharp and engaging, and the pacing keeps you hooked. Beyond action and strategy, the book highlights the unseen sacrifices made by intelligence officers who work without recognition or reward.
This book is strongly for readers who enjoy realistic political thrillers with lots of emotions and intense suspense. Kudos to the author for bringing such an emotional and sensitive topic to highlight.
November 29, 2025
4.5 Stars
First things first, Spectres Of Vengeance is a fictionalization of real events and real reports which are not “historic”, technically. They have maybe just moved beyond the scope of what we call current affairs, but are all pretty recent events and scenarios; hence, pretty fresh in most Indians’ memories. Not to mention the plethora of movies and shows, both Indian and international, that follow similar scenarios, similar geopolitics, and an overall similar tone of terrorism vs national defence, may have blunted your senses to the contemporary espionage and spy thriller genre.
But, there is no denying the merit of author Tarun Mehrishi’s second novel as a fast-paced thriller where he does not dilly-dally with ambiguity in the direction of the narrative.
One man, the Chief of Intelligence, Amitabh Mehta, has connected this intricate web and has the monster at the center of it all in his sight. But how to reach them without being trapped himself in endless bureaucracy, the quicksand of changing political priorities, and avoidable international pressures?
It seems the stars must align, putting the right people at the right place at the right time to bring about a change that would sustain. And India, as a nation, declares "enough is enough," launching an unprecedented offensive against terrorism.
Read it in one sitting, or in multiple sessions, but do not leave it unfinished! Remember, the last 50 pages make the whole novel feel more real and hit harder than you could expect.3
Unabridged review on my blog.
First things first, Spectres Of Vengeance is a fictionalization of real events and real reports which are not “historic”, technically. They have maybe just moved beyond the scope of what we call current affairs, but are all pretty recent events and scenarios; hence, pretty fresh in most Indians’ memories. Not to mention the plethora of movies and shows, both Indian and international, that follow similar scenarios, similar geopolitics, and an overall similar tone of terrorism vs national defence, may have blunted your senses to the contemporary espionage and spy thriller genre.
But, there is no denying the merit of author Tarun Mehrishi’s second novel as a fast-paced thriller where he does not dilly-dally with ambiguity in the direction of the narrative.
One man, the Chief of Intelligence, Amitabh Mehta, has connected this intricate web and has the monster at the center of it all in his sight. But how to reach them without being trapped himself in endless bureaucracy, the quicksand of changing political priorities, and avoidable international pressures?
It seems the stars must align, putting the right people at the right place at the right time to bring about a change that would sustain. And India, as a nation, declares "enough is enough," launching an unprecedented offensive against terrorism.
Read it in one sitting, or in multiple sessions, but do not leave it unfinished! Remember, the last 50 pages make the whole novel feel more real and hit harder than you could expect.3
Unabridged review on my blog.
December 9, 2025
spectres of vengeance by tarun mehrishi
genre : action, suspense
My 💭:
[09/12/25 8.57 PM]
Okay.. so this was a full on action book. Someone gift this book to Akshay Kumar and he'll immediately make a movie out of it! 🤩
The book is exactly what the cover suggests - vengeance and revenge form the core of the story. After repeated terrorism attacks on India, finally Amitabh Mehta, the head of IB, formulates a deadly plan to take out some of the most deadly terrorists in the world. All on one day, 15th August, signifying India's first step towards a long process of creating a terror free state. Amitabh and his team intricately designs a full proof plan to successfully execute the mission, but with so many hindrances and high profile people blocking them, it becomes a matter of Amitabh's personal mission to avenge his country.
Reading this book fully felt like watching a bollywood action movie. Since I am not much acquainted with spy missions and the processes behind them, I found the first half of the book to be quite descriptive. So I skimmed a few chapters there. But the readers who enjoy reading about every minute details of military operations, will find this part very interesting. I enjoyed the suspence behind the missions, whether they will be successful or not. I was expecting a big twist at the end but it was very normal one. But yes, the ending definitely evoked a sense of patriotism in me. 🇮🇳
People who love bollywood spy movies, this is the perfect read for you!
genre : action, suspense
My 💭:
[09/12/25 8.57 PM]
Okay.. so this was a full on action book. Someone gift this book to Akshay Kumar and he'll immediately make a movie out of it! 🤩
The book is exactly what the cover suggests - vengeance and revenge form the core of the story. After repeated terrorism attacks on India, finally Amitabh Mehta, the head of IB, formulates a deadly plan to take out some of the most deadly terrorists in the world. All on one day, 15th August, signifying India's first step towards a long process of creating a terror free state. Amitabh and his team intricately designs a full proof plan to successfully execute the mission, but with so many hindrances and high profile people blocking them, it becomes a matter of Amitabh's personal mission to avenge his country.
Reading this book fully felt like watching a bollywood action movie. Since I am not much acquainted with spy missions and the processes behind them, I found the first half of the book to be quite descriptive. So I skimmed a few chapters there. But the readers who enjoy reading about every minute details of military operations, will find this part very interesting. I enjoyed the suspence behind the missions, whether they will be successful or not. I was expecting a big twist at the end but it was very normal one. But yes, the ending definitely evoked a sense of patriotism in me. 🇮🇳
People who love bollywood spy movies, this is the perfect read for you!
November 16, 2025
The Thin Line Between Patriotism and Paranoia.
Tarun Mehrishi’s Spectres of Vengeance dives headfirst into the morally grey world of Indian intelligence and covert operations, where patriotism often bleeds into paranoia. If you enjoy political thrillers that feel uncomfortably close to reality echoing today’s headlines, this book will have you glued to your seat and constantly glancing over your shoulder.
The story picks up in the aftermath of a devastating terror attack, when Amitabh, a top intelligence officer, proposes something both audacious and terrifying: a secret assassination program designed to eliminate India’s enemies across the globe. No oversight. No accountability. No limits. The brilliance of Mehrishi’s storytelling lies in how convincingly he captures this descent, how the hunger for justice mutates into something darker, more personal, more vengeful.
What makes this book so gripping isn’t just the action or the espionage it’s the moral dilemma at its core. The book keeps forcing you to confront the question: How far is too far in the name of national security? Author doesn’t give easy answers, and that’s what makes it work.
Tense, intelligent, and disturbingly believable, Spectres of Vengeance isn’t just a political thriller, it’s a mirror reflecting the thin, dangerous line between protection and obsession.
Tarun Mehrishi’s Spectres of Vengeance dives headfirst into the morally grey world of Indian intelligence and covert operations, where patriotism often bleeds into paranoia. If you enjoy political thrillers that feel uncomfortably close to reality echoing today’s headlines, this book will have you glued to your seat and constantly glancing over your shoulder.
The story picks up in the aftermath of a devastating terror attack, when Amitabh, a top intelligence officer, proposes something both audacious and terrifying: a secret assassination program designed to eliminate India’s enemies across the globe. No oversight. No accountability. No limits. The brilliance of Mehrishi’s storytelling lies in how convincingly he captures this descent, how the hunger for justice mutates into something darker, more personal, more vengeful.
What makes this book so gripping isn’t just the action or the espionage it’s the moral dilemma at its core. The book keeps forcing you to confront the question: How far is too far in the name of national security? Author doesn’t give easy answers, and that’s what makes it work.
Tense, intelligent, and disturbingly believable, Spectres of Vengeance isn’t just a political thriller, it’s a mirror reflecting the thin, dangerous line between protection and obsession.
November 21, 2025
”This book is meant to be enjoyed as a thriller—a story that explores themes of loyalty, justice and moral complexity through the lens of imagination rather than reality.”
- Tarun Mehrishi, Spectres of Vengeance
Spectres of Vengeance by Tarun Mehrishi delves deep into the morally ambiguous realm of Indian intelligence and covert operations, where patriotism blurs into paranoia. If you are a person who enjoys realistic political thrillers, this is a story that will keep you engaged and uneasiness.
The aftermath of 1984 Khalistan to 1999 flight hijack and the most recent Delhi blasts still renders shockwaves in every Indian.
The novel starts where Amitabh who's senior intelligence officer is the mastermind of an assassination program that annihilates India's potential enemies round the world. No oversight. No accountability. No boundaries. Mehrishi masterfully navigates the unraveling of twists into something darker, more personal and ultimately more vengeful.
Tarun Mehrishi crafts a brilliant narrative with sharp writing, gripping tension and well-fleshed out characters. The product is a cinematic imagination of a story that feels ready to leap onto the screen. His portrayal of events is grounded in sensitivity.
Mehrishi's storytelling skills lies in how vividly, he renders this deteriorating world, allowing readers to feel its every crack and tremor.
- Tarun Mehrishi, Spectres of Vengeance
Spectres of Vengeance by Tarun Mehrishi delves deep into the morally ambiguous realm of Indian intelligence and covert operations, where patriotism blurs into paranoia. If you are a person who enjoys realistic political thrillers, this is a story that will keep you engaged and uneasiness.
The aftermath of 1984 Khalistan to 1999 flight hijack and the most recent Delhi blasts still renders shockwaves in every Indian.
The novel starts where Amitabh who's senior intelligence officer is the mastermind of an assassination program that annihilates India's potential enemies round the world. No oversight. No accountability. No boundaries. Mehrishi masterfully navigates the unraveling of twists into something darker, more personal and ultimately more vengeful.
Tarun Mehrishi crafts a brilliant narrative with sharp writing, gripping tension and well-fleshed out characters. The product is a cinematic imagination of a story that feels ready to leap onto the screen. His portrayal of events is grounded in sensitivity.
Mehrishi's storytelling skills lies in how vividly, he renders this deteriorating world, allowing readers to feel its every crack and tremor.
December 5, 2025
This is my first time reading a geopolitical thriller and Spectres of Vengeance made the experience memorable. The story pulls the readers into a high stake world, but it is written in a way that remains clear and engaging for readers who are new to the genre.
I especially enjoyed the technical parts of the book like the drone operations, the covert missions, and the idea of an untraceable toxin. These details are presented with precision and my engineering-chemist mind simply appreciated how well the author crafted these scenes and how they added depth to the narrative.
Another strong element is the way Author Tarun threads together pieces of India’s past: the Khalistan movement of the 80s, the 1993 Bombay serial blasts, military-base attacks and the complicated network between the elites of India and the underworld. I am not much interested in India's political system nor am I much aware about it, but as fiction, the integration of these events is done with great skill. Amitabh, the protagonist, carries the story with a sense of purpose and emotional weight.
The writing style of the author is vivid and fast-paced. Several scenes gave me goosebumps. The energy feels similar to the mood of the film Uri; tense, patriotic, and intense, but still grounded in emotion. A fantastic read for anyone curious about thrillers set in the Indian geopolitical space.
Highly recommended!!
I especially enjoyed the technical parts of the book like the drone operations, the covert missions, and the idea of an untraceable toxin. These details are presented with precision and my engineering-chemist mind simply appreciated how well the author crafted these scenes and how they added depth to the narrative.
Another strong element is the way Author Tarun threads together pieces of India’s past: the Khalistan movement of the 80s, the 1993 Bombay serial blasts, military-base attacks and the complicated network between the elites of India and the underworld. I am not much interested in India's political system nor am I much aware about it, but as fiction, the integration of these events is done with great skill. Amitabh, the protagonist, carries the story with a sense of purpose and emotional weight.
The writing style of the author is vivid and fast-paced. Several scenes gave me goosebumps. The energy feels similar to the mood of the film Uri; tense, patriotic, and intense, but still grounded in emotion. A fantastic read for anyone curious about thrillers set in the Indian geopolitical space.
Highly recommended!!
November 21, 2025
Having completed Spectres of Vengeance, the only thing I could utter was wow… just, well, wow. What a gut-wrenching and intense thriller. The entire book had a vibe very similar to The Family Man series, and I got goosebumps multiple times.
Coming to the review, From the 1984 Khalistan movement to the 1993 Mumbai blasts and the 1999 flight hijack, India has lived through trauma for decades. India's chief spymaster, Amitabh Mehta, has had a front-row seat for these moments: decisions being made, compromises becoming routine. But all of this changes when a newly elected Prime Minister finally gives him the one authorization he had been waiting for: Operation Vajra-a bold, precise, high-risk mission to kill six of the nation's most dangerous enemies with a clear message that India remembers and it no longer forgives.
Tarun Mehrishi tells a brilliantly structured story with sharp writing, tense moments, and well-etched characters. One can almost visualize this as a full-fledged series or a film since the storytelling is that vivid. I really enjoyed reading this. A fine one and absolutely worth picking up.
✨A gripping, smart, and highly engaging thriller. Perfect for fans of political espionage stories.
Coming to the review, From the 1984 Khalistan movement to the 1993 Mumbai blasts and the 1999 flight hijack, India has lived through trauma for decades. India's chief spymaster, Amitabh Mehta, has had a front-row seat for these moments: decisions being made, compromises becoming routine. But all of this changes when a newly elected Prime Minister finally gives him the one authorization he had been waiting for: Operation Vajra-a bold, precise, high-risk mission to kill six of the nation's most dangerous enemies with a clear message that India remembers and it no longer forgives.
Tarun Mehrishi tells a brilliantly structured story with sharp writing, tense moments, and well-etched characters. One can almost visualize this as a full-fledged series or a film since the storytelling is that vivid. I really enjoyed reading this. A fine one and absolutely worth picking up.
✨A gripping, smart, and highly engaging thriller. Perfect for fans of political espionage stories.
December 5, 2025
Spectres of Vengeance is one of those books that pulls you in from page one and refuses to let go. The whole espionage-meets-politics vibe feels surprisingly real, probably because the author doesn’t sugarcoat how messy intelligence work can get. Amitabh Mehta, the main guy, is flawed in the kind of way that makes him interesting—you don’t always agree with him, but you get why he does what he does. It sets up a story that feels intense without being over-the-top.
What I liked most is how the book blends action with moral questions. It’s not just missions and explosions; it actually makes you think about what “national security” really means and how far a country should go in the name of justice. There are twists, there's a mole, there’s political drama—pretty much everything you want in a thriller. Some parts really had me flipping pages just to see who was betraying whom.
Overall, it’s a fast, engaging read that’ll appeal to anyone who enjoys spy stories with a bit more depth than the usual shoot-and-run. The pacing is tight, the stakes feel real, and by the end you’re left wondering how much of this could be happening in the real world. If you’re into political thrillers or just want something gripping for the weekend, this is a solid pick.
What I liked most is how the book blends action with moral questions. It’s not just missions and explosions; it actually makes you think about what “national security” really means and how far a country should go in the name of justice. There are twists, there's a mole, there’s political drama—pretty much everything you want in a thriller. Some parts really had me flipping pages just to see who was betraying whom.
Overall, it’s a fast, engaging read that’ll appeal to anyone who enjoys spy stories with a bit more depth than the usual shoot-and-run. The pacing is tight, the stakes feel real, and by the end you’re left wondering how much of this could be happening in the real world. If you’re into political thrillers or just want something gripping for the weekend, this is a solid pick.
December 11, 2025
Just finished Spectres of Vengeance and I’m genuinely blown away. After beta-reading his murder mystery, I already knew Tarun Mehrishi’s writing was sharp but this espionage thriller took it to another level. The book pulls you in from the first chapter, weaving real historical events like hijacking and India’s counter-terror operations into a tense, fast-moving narrative.
I loved most is the mix of history, intelligence strategy and political tension which gives the story a strong patriotic spark. Amitabh Mehta is seasoned chief of intelligence whose life has been shaped by India’s most traumatic events from the IC-814 hijacking to the Bombay bombings and ongoing conflicts in Kashmir. Disillusioned by political inaction yet driven by sense of duty, he embraces a bold and controversial strategy: to target India’s enemies wherever they lurk. With tacit approval from a newly empowered prime minister, Amitabh launches a global covert assassination program that blurs the line between justice and vengeance itself.
If you love thrillers that are grounded, intelligent, and addictive… this one is absolutely worth your time.
I loved most is the mix of history, intelligence strategy and political tension which gives the story a strong patriotic spark. Amitabh Mehta is seasoned chief of intelligence whose life has been shaped by India’s most traumatic events from the IC-814 hijacking to the Bombay bombings and ongoing conflicts in Kashmir. Disillusioned by political inaction yet driven by sense of duty, he embraces a bold and controversial strategy: to target India’s enemies wherever they lurk. With tacit approval from a newly empowered prime minister, Amitabh launches a global covert assassination program that blurs the line between justice and vengeance itself.
If you love thrillers that are grounded, intelligent, and addictive… this one is absolutely worth your time.
December 17, 2025
It is one of those thrillers that hits you with action but keeps tugging at something deeper. The story follows Amitabh Mehta, the chief of intelligence, who’s haunted by the IC–814 hijacking and the guilt of what he couldn’t stop. That lingering trauma becomes the backbone of the whole book.
What I loved is how it mixes real events with fiction so seamlessly. One moment you’re in the middle of a global attack or a covert mission, and the next you’re sitting with Amitabh’s regrets, his loss, and this constant question of where justice ends and vengeance begins.
It’s fast, intense, and very grounded in India, politically, emotionally, and historically. The conspiracies get layered, the stakes get darker, and you’re constantly wondering who’s actually “right” here. That moral grey zone is honestly what makes the book stand out.
What I loved is how it mixes real events with fiction so seamlessly. One moment you’re in the middle of a global attack or a covert mission, and the next you’re sitting with Amitabh’s regrets, his loss, and this constant question of where justice ends and vengeance begins.
It’s fast, intense, and very grounded in India, politically, emotionally, and historically. The conspiracies get layered, the stakes get darker, and you’re constantly wondering who’s actually “right” here. That moral grey zone is honestly what makes the book stand out.
January 1, 2026
I was sure I will not like this book because I have overthought too many thrillers to the point of ruining them for me.. But this one.. felt like a different book than what I had read so far. I was invested from page 1 and by page five, I had a stack of pens. writing and noting and underlining and making a mess in the book. (I loved annotating this book. it was so fun.) I connected with this book better than I had thought myself capable and yes I docked a star because some parts felt boringly overexplained, till the overexplained parts started to make sense. (lesson to self: Trust the process) the plot was tight. the pacing was amazing the book ended on a high. I would not have picked this book up on my own, so thank god I did. I would totally recommend anyone who is even a little interested in Espionage, in thrillers, in secret service workings and all that lies in that neighbourhood to pick it up once and give Tarun mehrishi a chance to blow your mind with his talent.
November 30, 2025
A spy. A nation. A mission.
This book is like an action thriller. The book begins with the past events that lead to the plot for the readers to understand the story better. While we get introduced to some of the characters including our protagonist Amitabh. He's a through and through agent and a patriot who stops at nothing to get the job done. There's history and fiction mixed for the readers.
The characters are very raw and the protagonist also is not perfect which makes him more real. I really liked how the author progressed with the storyline, it was easy to glide through as this book is a complete page turner. The language is simple and the action sequences are well detailed to play out like the movies.
This book is like an action thriller. The book begins with the past events that lead to the plot for the readers to understand the story better. While we get introduced to some of the characters including our protagonist Amitabh. He's a through and through agent and a patriot who stops at nothing to get the job done. There's history and fiction mixed for the readers.
The characters are very raw and the protagonist also is not perfect which makes him more real. I really liked how the author progressed with the storyline, it was easy to glide through as this book is a complete page turner. The language is simple and the action sequences are well detailed to play out like the movies.
December 22, 2025
This book pulls you in from the very first page 😊 The story is fast, intense, and full of suspense. Amitabh Mehta is not a perfect hero, and that makes him feel very real. His past pain and guilt stay with him, and you can feel it while reading
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What I liked most is that this book is not only about action. It also makes you think 🤔 It talks about justice, revenge, and how difficult decisions can be in the world of intelligence and politics. The twists kept me guessing, and I really wanted to know what would happen next.
Overall, this is a very engaging and powerful read 📖 It feels real, emotional, and thrilling at the same time. If you enjoy spy stories with depth and strong emotions, you will really like this book ✨
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What I liked most is that this book is not only about action. It also makes you think 🤔 It talks about justice, revenge, and how difficult decisions can be in the world of intelligence and politics. The twists kept me guessing, and I really wanted to know what would happen next.
Overall, this is a very engaging and powerful read 📖 It feels real, emotional, and thrilling at the same time. If you enjoy spy stories with depth and strong emotions, you will really like this book ✨
November 16, 2025
Spectres of Vengeance was so much fun to read I started it and honestly didn’t want to stop. The pace is super fast the story keeps jumping into action and the twists are actually good. It feels big and detailed with all the spy stuff and different places but still very easy to follow.
It spans years but never gets boring. If you like action thrillers or anything close to Tom Clancy vibes you’ll enjoy this a lot. Really entertaining and totally worth picking up.
It spans years but never gets boring. If you like action thrillers or anything close to Tom Clancy vibes you’ll enjoy this a lot. Really entertaining and totally worth picking up.
January 4, 2026
much awaited second book by Tarun . it's a page turner . don't miss reading it
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