What do you think?
Rate this book
SHADOWS OVER AYODHYA
• As Ayodhya prepares for the Ram Mandir inauguration, a bomb is ticking beneath its holy soil.
• When SP Naveen Shukla uncovers forged contracts, missing funds, and a string of suspicious deaths, he realizes this is more than corruption—it’s a countdown.
• Teaming up with Nikhat Sherwani, a fearless journalist following the trail her father died trying to expose, the two trace ghost companies and buried ledgers to a shadowy foreign investor with ties to terror.
• As the threat grows harder to contain, the city edges closer to disaster.
• Can they expose the truth before faith becomes the target—and violence engulfs Ayodhya?
• When SP Naveen Shukla uncovers forged contracts, missing funds, and a string of suspicious deaths, he realizes this is more than corruption—it’s a countdown.
• Teaming up with Nikhat Sherwani, a fearless journalist following the trail her father died trying to expose, the two trace ghost companies and buried ledgers to a shadowy foreign investor with ties to terror.
• As the threat grows harder to contain, the city edges closer to disaster.
• Can they expose the truth before faith becomes the target—and violence engulfs Ayodhya?
239 pages, Paperback
Published November 23, 2025
1 person is currently reading
13 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 22, 2025
Some books entertain. Some provoke and then there are a few that quietly unsettle you because they feel uncomfortably close to reality. "Shadows Over Ayodhya" belongs to the last category.
At its surface, it is a fast-paced political crime thriller of murders, forged contracts, missing funds, covert money trails, and the ticking threat of mass violence. But beneath that propulsive narrative lies something far more unsettling, a meditation on how easily faith can be weaponized, how development can erase lives, and how truth becomes most dangerous when buried under sacred ground.
Set during a period of immense historical and emotional significance for Ayodhya, the book does not treat the city just as a backdrop. Ayodhya breathes through the pages, its lanes, its riverbanks, its charged silences, and its vulnerable people. The story unfolds at the intersection of devotion and demolition, where political ambition, public sentiment, and human cost collide.
One of the book’s strongest themes is the moral weight of power. Chief Minister Anurag Tripathi is not written as a caricature of political virtue or vice. Instead, he embodies the tension between intention and consequence. He wants development without displacement, order without cruelty, but reality does not always obey intention.
Through Nikhat Sherwani, the book explores journalism not as heroism, but as inheritance, something passed down, unfinished, and dangerous. Her pursuit of truth is inseparable from grief. She is not chasing a headline; she is chasing closure, justice, and a father’s silenced voice. This emotional underpinning gives the investigative arc genuine weight.
SP Naveen Shukla stands at the moral center of the novel. He is not loud, not dramatic, and not invincible. His strength lies in restraint. In a system riddled with compromise, his refusal to bend feels almost radical. The book captures something rare in Indian crime fiction, the quiet exhaustion of being honest in an environment that rewards obedience over integrity.
The writing is crisp, accessible, and cinematic without being shallow. Chapters move like scenes from a tightly edited political thriller, yet the book resists the temptation to become merely sensational.
Ayodhya’s portrayal deserves special mention. The city is not romanticized, nor reduced to controversy. It is shown as layered, living, fragile, caught between history and the present, devotion and displacement.
Faith in this book is deeply personal for ordinary people and dangerously strategic for those in power. The looming threat is not just physical violence, but ideological combustion. When belief becomes a rallying cry for fear, the cost is always borne by the voiceless. Importantly, the book never mocks belief. Instead, it mourns how belief is manipulated.
✍️ Strengths :
🔸Authentic socio-political grounding without becoming preachy
🔸Fast pacing that never sacrifices emotional depth
🔸Strong, believable characters with moral complexity
🔸Effective integration of real-world anxieties into fiction
🔸A powerful sense of place, making Ayodhya integral to the story
🔸An ending that surprises without feeling dishonest
✒️ Areas for Improvement :
▪️Some subplots, especially related to political maneuvering, could have benefitted from slightly more breathing room.
▪️A few revelations arrive quickly, where a slower unraveling might have heightened the impact.
▪️Readers seeking a deeply procedural investigation may find certain transitions more thematic than technical.
In conclusion, it is not important because it is thrilling, though it undeniably is. It matters because it reflects a reality where truth is dangerous, silence is convenient, and ordinary people pay the price of extraordinary ambition. It reminds us that behind every statistic is a displaced family, behind every scandal a buried body, and behind every “necessary sacrifice” a life that did not consent to being lost. This is one of those rare Indian political thrillers that balances momentum with meaning. It reads like a gripping web series, but lingers like a serious news investigation. It respects the reader’s intelligence and emotional investment.
If you are drawn to crime fiction rooted in real socio-political landscapes, stories that entertain but also unsettle, this book is not just recommended; it is necessary reading.
At its surface, it is a fast-paced political crime thriller of murders, forged contracts, missing funds, covert money trails, and the ticking threat of mass violence. But beneath that propulsive narrative lies something far more unsettling, a meditation on how easily faith can be weaponized, how development can erase lives, and how truth becomes most dangerous when buried under sacred ground.
Set during a period of immense historical and emotional significance for Ayodhya, the book does not treat the city just as a backdrop. Ayodhya breathes through the pages, its lanes, its riverbanks, its charged silences, and its vulnerable people. The story unfolds at the intersection of devotion and demolition, where political ambition, public sentiment, and human cost collide.
One of the book’s strongest themes is the moral weight of power. Chief Minister Anurag Tripathi is not written as a caricature of political virtue or vice. Instead, he embodies the tension between intention and consequence. He wants development without displacement, order without cruelty, but reality does not always obey intention.
Through Nikhat Sherwani, the book explores journalism not as heroism, but as inheritance, something passed down, unfinished, and dangerous. Her pursuit of truth is inseparable from grief. She is not chasing a headline; she is chasing closure, justice, and a father’s silenced voice. This emotional underpinning gives the investigative arc genuine weight.
SP Naveen Shukla stands at the moral center of the novel. He is not loud, not dramatic, and not invincible. His strength lies in restraint. In a system riddled with compromise, his refusal to bend feels almost radical. The book captures something rare in Indian crime fiction, the quiet exhaustion of being honest in an environment that rewards obedience over integrity.
The writing is crisp, accessible, and cinematic without being shallow. Chapters move like scenes from a tightly edited political thriller, yet the book resists the temptation to become merely sensational.
Ayodhya’s portrayal deserves special mention. The city is not romanticized, nor reduced to controversy. It is shown as layered, living, fragile, caught between history and the present, devotion and displacement.
Faith in this book is deeply personal for ordinary people and dangerously strategic for those in power. The looming threat is not just physical violence, but ideological combustion. When belief becomes a rallying cry for fear, the cost is always borne by the voiceless. Importantly, the book never mocks belief. Instead, it mourns how belief is manipulated.
✍️ Strengths :
🔸Authentic socio-political grounding without becoming preachy
🔸Fast pacing that never sacrifices emotional depth
🔸Strong, believable characters with moral complexity
🔸Effective integration of real-world anxieties into fiction
🔸A powerful sense of place, making Ayodhya integral to the story
🔸An ending that surprises without feeling dishonest
✒️ Areas for Improvement :
▪️Some subplots, especially related to political maneuvering, could have benefitted from slightly more breathing room.
▪️A few revelations arrive quickly, where a slower unraveling might have heightened the impact.
▪️Readers seeking a deeply procedural investigation may find certain transitions more thematic than technical.
In conclusion, it is not important because it is thrilling, though it undeniably is. It matters because it reflects a reality where truth is dangerous, silence is convenient, and ordinary people pay the price of extraordinary ambition. It reminds us that behind every statistic is a displaced family, behind every scandal a buried body, and behind every “necessary sacrifice” a life that did not consent to being lost. This is one of those rare Indian political thrillers that balances momentum with meaning. It reads like a gripping web series, but lingers like a serious news investigation. It respects the reader’s intelligence and emotional investment.
If you are drawn to crime fiction rooted in real socio-political landscapes, stories that entertain but also unsettle, this book is not just recommended; it is necessary reading.
December 19, 2025
𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖: 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐃𝐎𝐖𝐒 𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐀𝐘𝐎𝐃𝐇𝐘𝐀
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: 𝐀𝐍𝐔𝐉 𝐓𝐈𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐈
♪ It is a bold twist with Anuj Tiwari's voice. Ayodhya here marks it as a sensitive topic to explore and rewrite its journey. The plot unfolds during the historic period surrounding the Ram Mandir inauguration.
♪ Fiction + contemporary realities = comes with faith, power, politics and corruption collide beneath the surface of the city watched by the entire nation. What begins as a routine police investigation soon spirals into a dangerous conspiracy that threatens not just lives, but national stability.
♪ A city which is under intense scrutiny, Ayodhya, is politically, religiously and emotionally active. When the Ram Mandir inauguration was approaching, the administration was under pressure to maintain peace, order and perfection. At the center of all this, SP NAVEEN SHUKLA, a principled and experienced police officer tasked with maintaining law and order during this crucial time.
♪ The story begins with a seemingly minor but suspicious death linked to a construction worker involved in a government project. It is labeled an accident. As Naveen digs deeper, he uncovers those forged documents, missing government funds and silent witnesses who are too afraid to speak.
♪ There's a certain web of fear that goes across the plot - Corrupt politicians, powerful contractors, regions extremism used as a shield, manipulated faiths - is this not all?
♪ The conspiracy is not merely about money—it is about control, influence, and chaos. The villains of which I am talking about remain faceless for most of the story. They are reinforcing the idea that the real enemy is a system that thrives on silence and fear.
♪ But what creates chaos is the city. The city becomes a ticking time bomb. What made me hooked?
☞︎︎︎ Key witnesses are eliminated
☞︎︎︎ Evidences disappear
☞︎︎︎ Pressure from superior to drop the case!
♪ Nikhat confronts the emotional cost of her pursuit - reliving her father's death and realizing how dangerous truth can be in a nation where power often outweighs justice. In the climax, the conspiracy is partially exposed through a mix of police action, media revelation and personal sacrifices. While not every villain is punished, the central threat is neutralized before it can plunge Ayodhya into chaos.
♪ What kept me thinking about this book is - the idealistic tone. Justice is incomplete, truth is fragile and power remains unevenly disturbed. This book is more than a thriller; it is like a reflection for me filled with socio-political reflection of modern India. It remains with some unforgettable questions:
𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐛𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐚 𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐥?
𝐂𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐬?
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: 𝐀𝐍𝐔𝐉 𝐓𝐈𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐈
♪ It is a bold twist with Anuj Tiwari's voice. Ayodhya here marks it as a sensitive topic to explore and rewrite its journey. The plot unfolds during the historic period surrounding the Ram Mandir inauguration.
♪ Fiction + contemporary realities = comes with faith, power, politics and corruption collide beneath the surface of the city watched by the entire nation. What begins as a routine police investigation soon spirals into a dangerous conspiracy that threatens not just lives, but national stability.
♪ A city which is under intense scrutiny, Ayodhya, is politically, religiously and emotionally active. When the Ram Mandir inauguration was approaching, the administration was under pressure to maintain peace, order and perfection. At the center of all this, SP NAVEEN SHUKLA, a principled and experienced police officer tasked with maintaining law and order during this crucial time.
♪ The story begins with a seemingly minor but suspicious death linked to a construction worker involved in a government project. It is labeled an accident. As Naveen digs deeper, he uncovers those forged documents, missing government funds and silent witnesses who are too afraid to speak.
♪ There's a certain web of fear that goes across the plot - Corrupt politicians, powerful contractors, regions extremism used as a shield, manipulated faiths - is this not all?
♪ The conspiracy is not merely about money—it is about control, influence, and chaos. The villains of which I am talking about remain faceless for most of the story. They are reinforcing the idea that the real enemy is a system that thrives on silence and fear.
♪ But what creates chaos is the city. The city becomes a ticking time bomb. What made me hooked?
☞︎︎︎ Key witnesses are eliminated
☞︎︎︎ Evidences disappear
☞︎︎︎ Pressure from superior to drop the case!
♪ Nikhat confronts the emotional cost of her pursuit - reliving her father's death and realizing how dangerous truth can be in a nation where power often outweighs justice. In the climax, the conspiracy is partially exposed through a mix of police action, media revelation and personal sacrifices. While not every villain is punished, the central threat is neutralized before it can plunge Ayodhya into chaos.
♪ What kept me thinking about this book is - the idealistic tone. Justice is incomplete, truth is fragile and power remains unevenly disturbed. This book is more than a thriller; it is like a reflection for me filled with socio-political reflection of modern India. It remains with some unforgettable questions:
𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐛𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐚 𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐥?
𝐂𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐬?
December 10, 2025
🍀Book - Shadows Over Ayodhya
🍀 Author - Anuj Tiwari
🍀Plot -Chief Minister Anurag Tripathi was deeply unsettled by the widespread demolitions underway in Ayodhya. Families who had lived there for generations now stood helpless beside the rubble of their homes. Anurag had envisioned a grand transformation of Ayodhya—one that would place the city prominently on the world map—but not at the cost of his people’s suffering. The weight of that unintended consequence had begun to gnaw at him.
Sensing opportunity in the unrest, opposition leader Rajendra Yadav, whose long-nurtured ambition was to become Chief Minister himself, seized the moment. He wasted no time stirring public anger, fueling protests, and turning the turmoil against Anurag.
Meanwhile, SP Naveen Shukla, in the midst of investigating a gruesome murder, stumbled upon a disturbing connection—one that tied the crime to something far larger and more explosive than he had imagined.
At the same time, fiery journalist Nikhat Sherwani had been sifting through her late father’s old diary. Hidden among his cryptic notes, she discovered a clue—one that made her pulse quicken. Without hesitation, she sent a message to SP Naveen, unaware that their paths were about to collide in ways neither could foresee.
How will Chief Minister Anurag Tripathi balance development with the safety of the people?
• What did SP Naveen Shukla discover while investigating the murder?
• What information did Nikhat share with SP Naveen?
🍀Review -
The book begins with a political crisis and a tussle between the ruling and opposition parties, but gradually it shifts to many other elements, including murders, money laundering, land acquisitions, and various scams.
🍀Strengths
- From the beginning itself the story keeps the reader completely engaged.
- The plot and the narration is perfect and it doesn’t lag.
- The characters are so finely crafted that you inevitably fall in love with them.
- The language is balanced , descriptive but not boring .
- The sub plots are connected wisely and the story moves smoothly.
- Set in Ayodhya and inspired by true events, this story offers a deep look into the real-life incidents we so often hear about.
- The description of Ayodhya is cinematic and gives you truly breathtaking vibes.
- It’s filled with emotions like patriotism, love for one’s fellow citizens, honesty, and integrity.
🍀Limitations -None
🍀 Audience -If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers, crave a fresh narrative, and love immersive, pulse-pounding reads, this is a book you shouldn’t miss.
🍀 Author - Anuj Tiwari
🍀Plot -Chief Minister Anurag Tripathi was deeply unsettled by the widespread demolitions underway in Ayodhya. Families who had lived there for generations now stood helpless beside the rubble of their homes. Anurag had envisioned a grand transformation of Ayodhya—one that would place the city prominently on the world map—but not at the cost of his people’s suffering. The weight of that unintended consequence had begun to gnaw at him.
Sensing opportunity in the unrest, opposition leader Rajendra Yadav, whose long-nurtured ambition was to become Chief Minister himself, seized the moment. He wasted no time stirring public anger, fueling protests, and turning the turmoil against Anurag.
Meanwhile, SP Naveen Shukla, in the midst of investigating a gruesome murder, stumbled upon a disturbing connection—one that tied the crime to something far larger and more explosive than he had imagined.
At the same time, fiery journalist Nikhat Sherwani had been sifting through her late father’s old diary. Hidden among his cryptic notes, she discovered a clue—one that made her pulse quicken. Without hesitation, she sent a message to SP Naveen, unaware that their paths were about to collide in ways neither could foresee.
How will Chief Minister Anurag Tripathi balance development with the safety of the people?
• What did SP Naveen Shukla discover while investigating the murder?
• What information did Nikhat share with SP Naveen?
🍀Review -
The book begins with a political crisis and a tussle between the ruling and opposition parties, but gradually it shifts to many other elements, including murders, money laundering, land acquisitions, and various scams.
🍀Strengths
- From the beginning itself the story keeps the reader completely engaged.
- The plot and the narration is perfect and it doesn’t lag.
- The characters are so finely crafted that you inevitably fall in love with them.
- The language is balanced , descriptive but not boring .
- The sub plots are connected wisely and the story moves smoothly.
- Set in Ayodhya and inspired by true events, this story offers a deep look into the real-life incidents we so often hear about.
- The description of Ayodhya is cinematic and gives you truly breathtaking vibes.
- It’s filled with emotions like patriotism, love for one’s fellow citizens, honesty, and integrity.
🍀Limitations -None
🍀 Audience -If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers, crave a fresh narrative, and love immersive, pulse-pounding reads, this is a book you shouldn’t miss.
December 12, 2025
Shadows Over Ayodhya: A Sharp, Fast-Paced Thriller You Can’t Put Down
Who else loves reading thrillers? Winters are official season to indulge in good thrillers and enjoy the afternoon sunshine.
I just finished Shadows Over Ayodhya, and honestly, it surprised me in the best possible way.
I picked it up expecting a regular crime thriller, but it turned into such an intense and engaging read that I didn’t realise how quickly the chapters flew by.
What I loved most is how the book blends fiction with reality.
The forged contracts, missing funds, shady companies, and the rising tension under Ayodhya’s surface all make the story feel painfully relevant.
SP Naveen Shukla’s calm strength and Nikhat Sherwani’s determination make a strong pairing, and their journey feels both thrilling and emotional.
The twist near the end genuinely caught me off guard.
• The characters feel real, imperfect, emotional, and believable.
•The Ayodhya backdrop is almost like a character in the story, rich, tense, and full of history. It adds so much depth and makes the story feel alive. Finding a good Indian backdrop thriller is hard these days. This story satisfies that need.
• The mix of politics, crime, and mystery is done in a very engaging way.
• The pace never drops; something is always happening. I love fast pace thus it also ticked that box.
• The suspense is strong without being confusing.
• The emotional moments land well and don’t feel forced.
The characters are well developed, feels real and I felt I was standing besides them while the events were taking place.
The events at each point, pulls you in and makes the danger feel closer with every chapter.
It’s one of those books that’s easy to enter but hard to leave. But jist that my opinion. I think most readers will definitely find this trait enjoyable.
I’ve added some page shots in the slides too, do check them out. You can get idea of the language, if its easy for you or not. I found the narration quite lucid, even good for new readers.
So, If you enjoy fast-paced Indian thrillers with heart, this one is worth picking up. And yes I got my copy from Amazon!
Who else loves reading thrillers? Winters are official season to indulge in good thrillers and enjoy the afternoon sunshine.
I just finished Shadows Over Ayodhya, and honestly, it surprised me in the best possible way.
I picked it up expecting a regular crime thriller, but it turned into such an intense and engaging read that I didn’t realise how quickly the chapters flew by.
What I loved most is how the book blends fiction with reality.
The forged contracts, missing funds, shady companies, and the rising tension under Ayodhya’s surface all make the story feel painfully relevant.
SP Naveen Shukla’s calm strength and Nikhat Sherwani’s determination make a strong pairing, and their journey feels both thrilling and emotional.
The twist near the end genuinely caught me off guard.
• The characters feel real, imperfect, emotional, and believable.
•The Ayodhya backdrop is almost like a character in the story, rich, tense, and full of history. It adds so much depth and makes the story feel alive. Finding a good Indian backdrop thriller is hard these days. This story satisfies that need.
• The mix of politics, crime, and mystery is done in a very engaging way.
• The pace never drops; something is always happening. I love fast pace thus it also ticked that box.
• The suspense is strong without being confusing.
• The emotional moments land well and don’t feel forced.
The characters are well developed, feels real and I felt I was standing besides them while the events were taking place.
The events at each point, pulls you in and makes the danger feel closer with every chapter.
It’s one of those books that’s easy to enter but hard to leave. But jist that my opinion. I think most readers will definitely find this trait enjoyable.
I’ve added some page shots in the slides too, do check them out. You can get idea of the language, if its easy for you or not. I found the narration quite lucid, even good for new readers.
So, If you enjoy fast-paced Indian thrillers with heart, this one is worth picking up. And yes I got my copy from Amazon!
December 16, 2025
📗Shadows Over Ayodhya: A Gripping Story of Faith, Fear, and the Cost of Silence | An Unputdownable Indian Thriller by Anuj Tiwari
Some thrillers entertain. Some disturb. Shadows Over Ayodhya does both; while daring to ask uncomfortable questions about faith, power, and silence.
Set against the highly sensitive backdrop of Ayodhya during the Ram Mandir inauguration, this novel wastes no time pulling the reader into its tense atmosphere. From forged contracts and vanishing funds to suspicious deaths that refuse to stay buried, Anuj Tiwari crafts a story where every revelation feels dangerous, and every delay feels fatal.
At the heart of the narrative is SP Naveen Shukla, a principled officer navigating a system designed to resist truth. His investigation takes a gripping turn when he crosses paths with Nikhat Sherwani, a fearless journalist chasing the unfinished story that cost her father his life. Their alliance is one of the book’s strongest elements, driven not by convenience, but by shared moral urgency. As ghost companies, hidden ledgers, and a shadowy foreign investor come into focus, the thriller expands into a chilling commentary on how deep corruption can intertwine with ideology and terror.
What truly elevates Shadows Over Ayodhya is its restraint. The author handles a volatile subject with maturity, never sensationalising faith, but instead highlighting how it can be weaponised when truth is suppressed. The pacing is sharp, the stakes escalate organically, and the sense of an approaching catastrophe keeps the pages turning late into the night.
Inspired by true events, this is not just a political crime thriller; it’s a reminder of the cost of silence and the courage it takes to speak when everything urges you to look away.
If you enjoy Indian thrillers rooted in reality, layered with investigative depth and moral complexity, Shadows Over Ayodhya deserves a spot on your shelf. Tense, timely, and thought-provoking; this is a story that lingers long after the final page.
Some thrillers entertain. Some disturb. Shadows Over Ayodhya does both; while daring to ask uncomfortable questions about faith, power, and silence.
Set against the highly sensitive backdrop of Ayodhya during the Ram Mandir inauguration, this novel wastes no time pulling the reader into its tense atmosphere. From forged contracts and vanishing funds to suspicious deaths that refuse to stay buried, Anuj Tiwari crafts a story where every revelation feels dangerous, and every delay feels fatal.
At the heart of the narrative is SP Naveen Shukla, a principled officer navigating a system designed to resist truth. His investigation takes a gripping turn when he crosses paths with Nikhat Sherwani, a fearless journalist chasing the unfinished story that cost her father his life. Their alliance is one of the book’s strongest elements, driven not by convenience, but by shared moral urgency. As ghost companies, hidden ledgers, and a shadowy foreign investor come into focus, the thriller expands into a chilling commentary on how deep corruption can intertwine with ideology and terror.
What truly elevates Shadows Over Ayodhya is its restraint. The author handles a volatile subject with maturity, never sensationalising faith, but instead highlighting how it can be weaponised when truth is suppressed. The pacing is sharp, the stakes escalate organically, and the sense of an approaching catastrophe keeps the pages turning late into the night.
Inspired by true events, this is not just a political crime thriller; it’s a reminder of the cost of silence and the courage it takes to speak when everything urges you to look away.
If you enjoy Indian thrillers rooted in reality, layered with investigative depth and moral complexity, Shadows Over Ayodhya deserves a spot on your shelf. Tense, timely, and thought-provoking; this is a story that lingers long after the final page.
January 28, 2026
I went into this book thinking knew what kind of story I was getting and I was totally wrong !!
I've always wanted to read this book and when finally got the chance, I didn't expect it to stay with me the way it did. I finished it a few days back, and what surprised me most was how quickly it pulled me in. What started as a crime investigation slowly turned into a much deeper, more intense story about power, truth, and the cost of silence.
Set in Ayodhya during a highly sensitive period, the story carries a constant tension that never really fades. There's corruption, political pressure, hidden agendas, and fear running quietly in the background. What I appreciated is nothing seemed exaggerated just to shock the reader. It felt grounded, close to reality, and unsettling in a very effective way.
SP Naveen Shukla is written as a composed and thoughtful officer, someone who believes in patience and integrity. Nikhat Sherwani brings emotional strength and determination to the story, and together, their journey feels both engaging and meaningful. The emotional moments are handled with care and never feel overdone.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is its setting. "AYODHYA" isn't just where the story happens, it influences every decision, every conflict. The history, faith, and tension surrounding the city add depth to the narrative and raise the stakes naturally.
The pacing remains steady throughout, which I personally enjoyed since I love fast-paced reads. The suspense is strong without becoming confusing, and the twist near the end genuinely caught me off guard. It made the entire journey feel worth it.
If you are into political themes, crime investigations, and stories that reflect uncomfortable truths while still keeping you hooked, this book deserves a place on your reading list 💯
I've always wanted to read this book and when finally got the chance, I didn't expect it to stay with me the way it did. I finished it a few days back, and what surprised me most was how quickly it pulled me in. What started as a crime investigation slowly turned into a much deeper, more intense story about power, truth, and the cost of silence.
Set in Ayodhya during a highly sensitive period, the story carries a constant tension that never really fades. There's corruption, political pressure, hidden agendas, and fear running quietly in the background. What I appreciated is nothing seemed exaggerated just to shock the reader. It felt grounded, close to reality, and unsettling in a very effective way.
SP Naveen Shukla is written as a composed and thoughtful officer, someone who believes in patience and integrity. Nikhat Sherwani brings emotional strength and determination to the story, and together, their journey feels both engaging and meaningful. The emotional moments are handled with care and never feel overdone.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is its setting. "AYODHYA" isn't just where the story happens, it influences every decision, every conflict. The history, faith, and tension surrounding the city add depth to the narrative and raise the stakes naturally.
The pacing remains steady throughout, which I personally enjoyed since I love fast-paced reads. The suspense is strong without becoming confusing, and the twist near the end genuinely caught me off guard. It made the entire journey feel worth it.
If you are into political themes, crime investigations, and stories that reflect uncomfortable truths while still keeping you hooked, this book deserves a place on your reading list 💯
December 19, 2025
I went into Shadows Over Ayodhya expecting a tense political thriller, but what I didn’t anticipate was how immersive and emotionally grounded it would feel. From the very first chapter, the story pulls you into a city on the brink not just of an event, but of revelation. The atmosphere is dense, urgent, and quietly unsettling, making it impossible to read this book without feeling the weight of what’s at stake.
SP Naveen Shukla is written with restraint and depth—an investigator who relies as much on instinct as on patience. His partnership with journalist Nikhat Sherwani adds a compelling emotional layer to the narrative. Nikhat’s personal connection to the truth she’s chasing gives the story heart, and her courage never feels performative; it feels earned. Together, their dynamic drives the plot forward in a way that’s both believable and gripping.
What I particularly loved is how the book handles its themes. It never shouts or sermonizes. Instead, it lets details missing files, quiet conversations, half-buried records do the heavy lifting. The tension builds steadily, like a slow-burning fuse, and every revelation feels earned rather than sensationalized. The pacing is sharp, the chapters are tight, and the stakes escalate without ever losing clarity.
Despite being inspired by real events, the novel remains firmly focused on its characters and their moral dilemmas. It’s less about shock value and more about the cost of truth what it demands, and what it risks.
Shadows Over Ayodhya is a smart, absorbing read that stayed with me long after I turned the final page. It’s the kind of thriller that respects the reader’s intelligence while delivering a genuinely compelling story.
SP Naveen Shukla is written with restraint and depth—an investigator who relies as much on instinct as on patience. His partnership with journalist Nikhat Sherwani adds a compelling emotional layer to the narrative. Nikhat’s personal connection to the truth she’s chasing gives the story heart, and her courage never feels performative; it feels earned. Together, their dynamic drives the plot forward in a way that’s both believable and gripping.
What I particularly loved is how the book handles its themes. It never shouts or sermonizes. Instead, it lets details missing files, quiet conversations, half-buried records do the heavy lifting. The tension builds steadily, like a slow-burning fuse, and every revelation feels earned rather than sensationalized. The pacing is sharp, the chapters are tight, and the stakes escalate without ever losing clarity.
Despite being inspired by real events, the novel remains firmly focused on its characters and their moral dilemmas. It’s less about shock value and more about the cost of truth what it demands, and what it risks.
Shadows Over Ayodhya is a smart, absorbing read that stayed with me long after I turned the final page. It’s the kind of thriller that respects the reader’s intelligence while delivering a genuinely compelling story.
February 2, 2026
Genre & Vibe: A political crime thriller rooted in real-world tensions.
A fast-paced, cinematic read that blends investigation, conspiracy, faith & moral dilemma against the emotionally charged backdrop of Ayodhya as it prepares for the inauguration of the Ram Mandir.
The vibe is tense, urgent & deeply relevant.
When SP Naveen Shukla uncovers suspicious deaths, forged contracts & missing funds tied to a city project, what looks like routine corruption soon reveals a much darker plot. Teaming up with Nikhat Sherwani, a fearless journalist chasing the unfinished story her father died for, they uncover a web of ghost companies, buried ledgers & shadowy interests. The book uses the “investigator + journalist uncovering systemic truth” trope to drive both suspense & emotional weight.
What Readers Will Like
- Cinematic pacing: it reads like a gripping web series, with each chapter ending on a hook.
- Strong characters: Naveen’s integrity & Nikhat’s emotional stakes give the thriller a human core.
- Topical relevance: blending politics, faith & corruption makes the story feel frighteningly plausible.
- Atmospheric setting: Ayodhya itself feels alive, fraught & pivotal to the tension.
Some political subplots could feel rushed or dense for readers seeking straight procedural crime fiction. A few twists might unfold quickly, without the deep forensic detail you prefer, if you prefer technical investigations.
Shadows Over Ayodhya is a smart, gripping political thriller that entertains & provokes thought about truth, power & faith in a divided world. A compelling pick for fans of Indian thrillers with socio-political weight.
It's timely, tense & thought-provoking.
A fast-paced, cinematic read that blends investigation, conspiracy, faith & moral dilemma against the emotionally charged backdrop of Ayodhya as it prepares for the inauguration of the Ram Mandir.
The vibe is tense, urgent & deeply relevant.
When SP Naveen Shukla uncovers suspicious deaths, forged contracts & missing funds tied to a city project, what looks like routine corruption soon reveals a much darker plot. Teaming up with Nikhat Sherwani, a fearless journalist chasing the unfinished story her father died for, they uncover a web of ghost companies, buried ledgers & shadowy interests. The book uses the “investigator + journalist uncovering systemic truth” trope to drive both suspense & emotional weight.
What Readers Will Like
- Cinematic pacing: it reads like a gripping web series, with each chapter ending on a hook.
- Strong characters: Naveen’s integrity & Nikhat’s emotional stakes give the thriller a human core.
- Topical relevance: blending politics, faith & corruption makes the story feel frighteningly plausible.
- Atmospheric setting: Ayodhya itself feels alive, fraught & pivotal to the tension.
Some political subplots could feel rushed or dense for readers seeking straight procedural crime fiction. A few twists might unfold quickly, without the deep forensic detail you prefer, if you prefer technical investigations.
Shadows Over Ayodhya is a smart, gripping political thriller that entertains & provokes thought about truth, power & faith in a divided world. A compelling pick for fans of Indian thrillers with socio-political weight.
It's timely, tense & thought-provoking.
December 15, 2025
I recently read "Shadows Over Ayodhya" by author Anuj Tiwari, and it’s a truly interesting political crime thriller that kept me hooked until the end. It explores themes of corruption, greed, betrayal, sacrifice, and more.
The novel is set in Uttar Pradesh and begins in Ayodhya, where the Ayodhya Development Authority (ADA) is carrying out demolitions in colonies of poor people, including vendors, builders, potters, and farmers, who are protesting against it. The Chief Minister of UP, Anurag Tripathi, wants to restore Ayodhya’s glory on a global level and transform the city, but things take a different turn when his own people begin losing their homes and protests intensify. Meanwhile, Rajendra Yadav, the opposition leader, uses the anger of the poor protestors as an opportunity for his own political gain.
On the other side, SP Naveen Shukla is working on the case of the brutal murder of a farmer, Dinesh, whose body is found in Lakshman Khera. He teams up with a journalist named Nilhat, and as the story progresses, many hidden secrets are uncovered. Is it only about corruption, or is there something more? Will CM Anurag Tripathi be able to protect Ayodhya and its people?
The best part and the real strength of the novel is its fast pace and the vivid atmosphere of Ayodhya. Everything feels real, it actually felt like watching a thrilling movie. The language and narration are easy to understand.
This is the first book by author Anuj Tiwari that I’ve read, and I loved it. If you enjoy fast-paced crime thrillers blending politics, murders, scams, and corruption, "Shadows Over Ayodhya" is a great choice.
The novel is set in Uttar Pradesh and begins in Ayodhya, where the Ayodhya Development Authority (ADA) is carrying out demolitions in colonies of poor people, including vendors, builders, potters, and farmers, who are protesting against it. The Chief Minister of UP, Anurag Tripathi, wants to restore Ayodhya’s glory on a global level and transform the city, but things take a different turn when his own people begin losing their homes and protests intensify. Meanwhile, Rajendra Yadav, the opposition leader, uses the anger of the poor protestors as an opportunity for his own political gain.
On the other side, SP Naveen Shukla is working on the case of the brutal murder of a farmer, Dinesh, whose body is found in Lakshman Khera. He teams up with a journalist named Nilhat, and as the story progresses, many hidden secrets are uncovered. Is it only about corruption, or is there something more? Will CM Anurag Tripathi be able to protect Ayodhya and its people?
The best part and the real strength of the novel is its fast pace and the vivid atmosphere of Ayodhya. Everything feels real, it actually felt like watching a thrilling movie. The language and narration are easy to understand.
This is the first book by author Anuj Tiwari that I’ve read, and I loved it. If you enjoy fast-paced crime thrillers blending politics, murders, scams, and corruption, "Shadows Over Ayodhya" is a great choice.
December 19, 2025
Shadows Over Ayodhya is a gripping political crime thriller that pulls the reader straight into the tense atmosphere of a city on the brink of a historic moment. Set against the backdrop of the Ram Mandir inauguration, the novel blends faith, politics, corruption, and terror into a fast-paced and unsettling narrative.
The story follows SP Naveen Shukla, a principled police officer who stumbles upon forged contracts, missing funds, and a series of mysterious deaths. What initially appears to be routine corruption soon reveals itself as a far more dangerous conspiracy. The tension escalates when he teams up with Nikhat Sherwani, a fearless journalist haunted by her father’s unfinished investigation. Together, they unravel a web of ghost companies, buried ledgers, and shadowy foreign interests with terrifying consequences.
What makes this book compelling is its realism. Inspired by true events, the plot feels disturbingly plausible, making every revelation hit harder. The author skillfully balances investigative detail with emotional depth, especially through Nikhat’s personal loss and Naveen’s moral dilemmas. Ayodhya itself feels like a living character—sacred, vulnerable, and standing at the crossroads of faith and violence.
The pacing is sharp, the stakes are high, and the narrative constantly reminds the reader of the cost of truth in a world ruled by power and fear. This is not just a thriller; it’s a cautionary tale about what happens when secrets are buried beneath holy ground.
The story follows SP Naveen Shukla, a principled police officer who stumbles upon forged contracts, missing funds, and a series of mysterious deaths. What initially appears to be routine corruption soon reveals itself as a far more dangerous conspiracy. The tension escalates when he teams up with Nikhat Sherwani, a fearless journalist haunted by her father’s unfinished investigation. Together, they unravel a web of ghost companies, buried ledgers, and shadowy foreign interests with terrifying consequences.
What makes this book compelling is its realism. Inspired by true events, the plot feels disturbingly plausible, making every revelation hit harder. The author skillfully balances investigative detail with emotional depth, especially through Nikhat’s personal loss and Naveen’s moral dilemmas. Ayodhya itself feels like a living character—sacred, vulnerable, and standing at the crossroads of faith and violence.
The pacing is sharp, the stakes are high, and the narrative constantly reminds the reader of the cost of truth in a world ruled by power and fear. This is not just a thriller; it’s a cautionary tale about what happens when secrets are buried beneath holy ground.
December 21, 2025
Some thrillers entertain. Others disturb, provoke, and stay with you. Shadows Over Ayodhya firmly belongs to the latter.
Set in the tense and emotionally charged landscape of Ayodhya, the novel unfolds as a gripping political thriller that skillfully explores faith, power, fear, and the dangerous weight of unspoken truths. From the opening chapters, the story moves at a sharp pace, drawing the reader into a world where every decision carries consequences.
What truly elevates the book is its character-driven narrative. The conflicted police officer torn between duty and conscience, and the determined journalist chasing truth at personal cost, are written with depth and restraint. Their arcs add emotional gravity to the fast-moving plot, making the suspense feel personal rather than merely dramatic.
The writing is tight and visual, almost cinematic, with twists that arrive naturally instead of feeling forced. What impressed me most is how convincingly the novel blends fiction with real socio-political tensions. The setting never feels ornamental it shapes the story, the characters, and the moral dilemmas at its core.
As the tension escalates, the book raises uncomfortable questions about silence, responsibility, and the price of truth questions that linger long after the final page.
If you enjoy Indian political thrillers, crime fiction rooted in reality, or stories that reflect the complexities of our social fabric, Shadows Over Ayodhya is a compelling and unforgettable read. Unsettling, sharp, and truly unputdownable.
Set in the tense and emotionally charged landscape of Ayodhya, the novel unfolds as a gripping political thriller that skillfully explores faith, power, fear, and the dangerous weight of unspoken truths. From the opening chapters, the story moves at a sharp pace, drawing the reader into a world where every decision carries consequences.
What truly elevates the book is its character-driven narrative. The conflicted police officer torn between duty and conscience, and the determined journalist chasing truth at personal cost, are written with depth and restraint. Their arcs add emotional gravity to the fast-moving plot, making the suspense feel personal rather than merely dramatic.
The writing is tight and visual, almost cinematic, with twists that arrive naturally instead of feeling forced. What impressed me most is how convincingly the novel blends fiction with real socio-political tensions. The setting never feels ornamental it shapes the story, the characters, and the moral dilemmas at its core.
As the tension escalates, the book raises uncomfortable questions about silence, responsibility, and the price of truth questions that linger long after the final page.
If you enjoy Indian political thrillers, crime fiction rooted in reality, or stories that reflect the complexities of our social fabric, Shadows Over Ayodhya is a compelling and unforgettable read. Unsettling, sharp, and truly unputdownable.
December 2, 2025
Shadows over Ayodhya by Anuj Tiwari:-
BOOK REVIEW:-
This book is an absolute thriller! It'll keep you at the edge of your seat throughout the book. Shadows Over Ayodhya is a realistic Indian fiction novel that is set against the backdrop of the Ram Mandir inauguration. The plot is crisp and the writing is gripping. The way the author weaves real events with fiction is pure genius and it makes you question what the truth actually is.
If you're into political thrillers that'll leave you guessing until the very end, then this should be high up on your tbr list. Don't miss this wild ride!! 👀✨
BOOK DESCRIPTION:-
As Ayodhya prepares for the Ram Mandir inauguration, a bo.mb is ticking beneath its holy soil.
When SP Naveen Shukla uncovers forged contracts, missing funds, and a string of suspicious deaths, he realizes this is more than corruption—it’s a countdown.
Teaming up with Nikhat Sherwani, a fearless journalist following the trail her father died trying to expose, the two trace ghost companies and buried ledgers to a shadowy foreign investor with ties to terror.
As the threat grows harder to contain, the city edges closer to disaster.
Can they expose the truth before faith becomes the target—and violence engulfs Ayodhya?
Inspired by true events, Shadows Over Ayodhya is a razor-sharp political crime thriller about power, fear, and the deadly consequences of uncovering a secret buried beneath holy ground.
BOOK REVIEW:-
This book is an absolute thriller! It'll keep you at the edge of your seat throughout the book. Shadows Over Ayodhya is a realistic Indian fiction novel that is set against the backdrop of the Ram Mandir inauguration. The plot is crisp and the writing is gripping. The way the author weaves real events with fiction is pure genius and it makes you question what the truth actually is.
If you're into political thrillers that'll leave you guessing until the very end, then this should be high up on your tbr list. Don't miss this wild ride!! 👀✨
BOOK DESCRIPTION:-
As Ayodhya prepares for the Ram Mandir inauguration, a bo.mb is ticking beneath its holy soil.
When SP Naveen Shukla uncovers forged contracts, missing funds, and a string of suspicious deaths, he realizes this is more than corruption—it’s a countdown.
Teaming up with Nikhat Sherwani, a fearless journalist following the trail her father died trying to expose, the two trace ghost companies and buried ledgers to a shadowy foreign investor with ties to terror.
As the threat grows harder to contain, the city edges closer to disaster.
Can they expose the truth before faith becomes the target—and violence engulfs Ayodhya?
Inspired by true events, Shadows Over Ayodhya is a razor-sharp political crime thriller about power, fear, and the deadly consequences of uncovering a secret buried beneath holy ground.
December 8, 2025
It is a pulse-racing thriller, which makes you stand on the edge of your seat throughout. Shadows Over Ayodhya is a realistic Indian fiction novel, which is set during the opening of the Ram Mandir. It is a short well gripping story that mixes real events with fictional one leaving you wondering what is true. It is characterized by political intrigues, fake dealings, lost finances and anonymous murders- tension that does not relent!
The characters attracted me the most. Anurag Tripathi, CM is the ideal man, sharp, honest, brave, and devoted to the people. SP Naveen Shukla is imperfect but strong-willed and a human being. Nikhat Sherwani is a daring journalist. Her narrative is heart touching and compelling when she explores the demise of her father!
The plot moves quickly. The language is straightforward and strong. The Ayodhya background is realistic and sweltering. The chapters are written like a movie scene because you are walking in the city lanes and a plot is going on under your feet!
I was crazy over the way my head divided into reading and looking which made every page look bright. The fact that I was binge-reading kept me engaged until the perfect conclusion which made the entire experience memorable. You have to choose this book in case you want to feel that you are watching a web series and you love thrillers and want to recommend this book to every thriller lover!
The characters attracted me the most. Anurag Tripathi, CM is the ideal man, sharp, honest, brave, and devoted to the people. SP Naveen Shukla is imperfect but strong-willed and a human being. Nikhat Sherwani is a daring journalist. Her narrative is heart touching and compelling when she explores the demise of her father!
The plot moves quickly. The language is straightforward and strong. The Ayodhya background is realistic and sweltering. The chapters are written like a movie scene because you are walking in the city lanes and a plot is going on under your feet!
I was crazy over the way my head divided into reading and looking which made every page look bright. The fact that I was binge-reading kept me engaged until the perfect conclusion which made the entire experience memorable. You have to choose this book in case you want to feel that you are watching a web series and you love thrillers and want to recommend this book to every thriller lover!
December 26, 2025
I picked up Shadows Over Ayodhya expecting just another crime story, but what I got was far richer and more layered. Set against the tense backdrop of the Ram Mandir inauguration, the book mixes political intrigue, corruption, and human drama in a way that feels eerily close to reality.
Goodreads
The writing is fast-paced and cinematic, pulling you into Ayodhya not just as a setting, but as a living, vulnerable character. The tension never lets up once the investigation kicks off — there are forged contracts, missing funds, mysterious deaths, and that ticking sense of something far bigger lurking beneath the surface.
Goodreads
SP Naveen Shukla is a refreshingly grounded lead — principled, thoughtful, and deeply human — while journalist Nikhat Sherwani adds emotional depth with her personal stake in the story. Their dynamic kept me engaged from start to finish.
Goodreads
What impressed me most is how the book handles sensitive themes like faith and power without sensationalizing them. It’s thrilling, yes, but it also makes you think about how truth and silence intertwine in complex socio-political landscapes.
Goodreads
📌 If you love Indian thrillers rooted in real-world concerns with strong characters and high stakes, this is a must-read.”
Goodreads
The writing is fast-paced and cinematic, pulling you into Ayodhya not just as a setting, but as a living, vulnerable character. The tension never lets up once the investigation kicks off — there are forged contracts, missing funds, mysterious deaths, and that ticking sense of something far bigger lurking beneath the surface.
Goodreads
SP Naveen Shukla is a refreshingly grounded lead — principled, thoughtful, and deeply human — while journalist Nikhat Sherwani adds emotional depth with her personal stake in the story. Their dynamic kept me engaged from start to finish.
Goodreads
What impressed me most is how the book handles sensitive themes like faith and power without sensationalizing them. It’s thrilling, yes, but it also makes you think about how truth and silence intertwine in complex socio-political landscapes.
Goodreads
📌 If you love Indian thrillers rooted in real-world concerns with strong characters and high stakes, this is a must-read.”
January 29, 2026
"Shadows Over Ayodhya" started without noise, but it didn’t take long for the story to pull me in completely🤞
Set in Ayodhya during the "Ram Mandir" inauguration, the story's blending crime, politics, journalism and moral responsibility with striking control.
Missing funds, mysterious deaths...as they began to surface, the pace sharpens and soon the book starts feeling like watching some crime thriller series!
SP Naveen Shukla portrayed calm and kept being a principled investigator, who navigates power with conscience, while journalist Nikhat Sherwani brought emotional front and urgency to the investigation with her personal stake in uncovering the truth.
Their journeys were never exaggerated, rather their flaws and doubts made them human🙌
The suspense remained sharp and the novel, not even for once forgot about the real people being affected by corruption and violence.
The ending too, felt honest and unsettling.
Written in simple, clear language, the book felt real from the very first pages, like...never dramatic for effect, never trying to sound clever! It unfolded naturally, because of which, the tension felt honest and close to life!
This book questions power and responsibility which definitely makes it worth all efforts!!
Set in Ayodhya during the "Ram Mandir" inauguration, the story's blending crime, politics, journalism and moral responsibility with striking control.
Missing funds, mysterious deaths...as they began to surface, the pace sharpens and soon the book starts feeling like watching some crime thriller series!
SP Naveen Shukla portrayed calm and kept being a principled investigator, who navigates power with conscience, while journalist Nikhat Sherwani brought emotional front and urgency to the investigation with her personal stake in uncovering the truth.
Their journeys were never exaggerated, rather their flaws and doubts made them human🙌
The suspense remained sharp and the novel, not even for once forgot about the real people being affected by corruption and violence.
The ending too, felt honest and unsettling.
Written in simple, clear language, the book felt real from the very first pages, like...never dramatic for effect, never trying to sound clever! It unfolded naturally, because of which, the tension felt honest and close to life!
This book questions power and responsibility which definitely makes it worth all efforts!!
January 31, 2026
Shadows over Ayodhya
Along with being a fast-paced political thriller, the book reflects a reality that comes very close to the real world. It highlights faith, power, politics, buried truths, brazen lies, and corruption. The fact that it’s set in Ayodhya makes it feel even closer to us as Indians. It was an engaging read, and once you start, you’ll find it difficult to put down.
The story is set during a period when Ayodhya holds immense importance—be it historic or religious. In the book, Ayodhya is not portrayed as just a city but as a place that carries deep faith and power. The way Ayodhya is narrated gives the story a cinematic vibe. Characters like Nikhat and Naveen Shukla make the plot feel more 3D and captivating, and they are well portrayed.
I loved the pacing of the book—it was neither rushed nor slow, nor overly detailed, which kept me turning the pages. I also appreciated how the author wrote about fragile and important aspects like faith and truth in a way that doesn’t provoke readers. I really loved the writing; it was simple, easy to understand, and flowed smoothly.
Overall, if you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with realistic elements, you’ll definitely enjoy this book.
Along with being a fast-paced political thriller, the book reflects a reality that comes very close to the real world. It highlights faith, power, politics, buried truths, brazen lies, and corruption. The fact that it’s set in Ayodhya makes it feel even closer to us as Indians. It was an engaging read, and once you start, you’ll find it difficult to put down.
The story is set during a period when Ayodhya holds immense importance—be it historic or religious. In the book, Ayodhya is not portrayed as just a city but as a place that carries deep faith and power. The way Ayodhya is narrated gives the story a cinematic vibe. Characters like Nikhat and Naveen Shukla make the plot feel more 3D and captivating, and they are well portrayed.
I loved the pacing of the book—it was neither rushed nor slow, nor overly detailed, which kept me turning the pages. I also appreciated how the author wrote about fragile and important aspects like faith and truth in a way that doesn’t provoke readers. I really loved the writing; it was simple, easy to understand, and flowed smoothly.
Overall, if you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with realistic elements, you’ll definitely enjoy this book.
December 4, 2025
Shadows Over Ayodhya is a high-voltage political crime thriller that refuses to let you breathe easy. Set against the emotionally charged backdrop of the Ram Mandir inauguration, the book fuses faith, fear, and forensic suspense into a narrative that feels disturbingly — and deliberately — close to reality.
Right from the first chapter, the tension coils like a live wire. SP Naveen Shukla isn’t your typical fictional cop; he’s methodical, flawed, and dangerously close to truths no one wants unearthed. When he stumbles upon forged contracts, vanishing funds, and a chilling pattern of “accidental” deaths, the story sheds any illusion of being a routine corruption case. This is a countdown — and we feel every tick.
Enter Nikhat Sherwani, a fierce journalist whose personal stakes sharpen the narrative further. The legacy of her father’s unfinished investigation adds both emotional intensity and moral weight, turning her into more than just a foil to Shukla. Together, they sift through ghost companies, falsified ledgers, and a network of power brokers tied to a foreign investor whose motives are as explosive as the secrets buried under Ayodhya’s soil.
Read the full review:
Right from the first chapter, the tension coils like a live wire. SP Naveen Shukla isn’t your typical fictional cop; he’s methodical, flawed, and dangerously close to truths no one wants unearthed. When he stumbles upon forged contracts, vanishing funds, and a chilling pattern of “accidental” deaths, the story sheds any illusion of being a routine corruption case. This is a countdown — and we feel every tick.
Enter Nikhat Sherwani, a fierce journalist whose personal stakes sharpen the narrative further. The legacy of her father’s unfinished investigation adds both emotional intensity and moral weight, turning her into more than just a foil to Shukla. Together, they sift through ghost companies, falsified ledgers, and a network of power brokers tied to a foreign investor whose motives are as explosive as the secrets buried under Ayodhya’s soil.
Read the full review:
December 17, 2025
Shadows Over Ayodhya is a novel that grips you slowly by asking unsettling questions on power, faith and truth. The plot is crafted around city of Ayodhya that is on the brink of a historic moment, making the narrative urgent and mysterious.
Although fiction, this novel carries the mirror of reality making you pause and wonder how corruption lurks on the grounds of sacredness and even turns faith into a weapon. This is the story of greed, fear and silence.
Ayodhya isn’t just a backdrop, it feels alive, sacred and vulnerable at the same time. The story is narrated with focus on subject matter without sensationalising it and with bravery of exploring the truth.
What makes Shadows Over Ayodhya truly inspirational is how close this fiction feels to the real events.
This is not a comfort read. It’s a book for readers who enjoy political crime thrillers that provoke thought. If you like stories that don’t just entertain but also make you sit back and reflect, Shadows Over Ayodhya is one you won’t forget easily.
Although fiction, this novel carries the mirror of reality making you pause and wonder how corruption lurks on the grounds of sacredness and even turns faith into a weapon. This is the story of greed, fear and silence.
Ayodhya isn’t just a backdrop, it feels alive, sacred and vulnerable at the same time. The story is narrated with focus on subject matter without sensationalising it and with bravery of exploring the truth.
What makes Shadows Over Ayodhya truly inspirational is how close this fiction feels to the real events.
This is not a comfort read. It’s a book for readers who enjoy political crime thrillers that provoke thought. If you like stories that don’t just entertain but also make you sit back and reflect, Shadows Over Ayodhya is one you won’t forget easily.
January 30, 2026
This book reads like a political thriller, the build-up, the key players, and the tension leading up are written really well.
Anuj Tiwari explains complex events clearly and keeps you hooked till the end.
When you read this book further, the suspense increases and it honestly feels like watching a crime thriller web series unfold episode by episode. The situations feel real and the emotions are very human, which makes the story more impactful.
Simply ,when you read this book it feels like motion picture. The way Author put a soul in every fictional character is pure magic.
Writing Style of Author:-
💞Characters are beautifully created and play their roles perfectly in the story.
Book Reccomendation:
1)Those Individual who loved to read crime fiction story full of exciting twists and action then do read.
Lastly ,i would say this book is gripping read that leaves an impact even after you’re done.Totally worth to read.
Anuj Tiwari explains complex events clearly and keeps you hooked till the end.
When you read this book further, the suspense increases and it honestly feels like watching a crime thriller web series unfold episode by episode. The situations feel real and the emotions are very human, which makes the story more impactful.
Simply ,when you read this book it feels like motion picture. The way Author put a soul in every fictional character is pure magic.
Writing Style of Author:-
💞Characters are beautifully created and play their roles perfectly in the story.
Book Reccomendation:
1)Those Individual who loved to read crime fiction story full of exciting twists and action then do read.
Lastly ,i would say this book is gripping read that leaves an impact even after you’re done.Totally worth to read.
December 20, 2025
Shadows over Ayodhya is a gripping political thriller that weaves together crime, murder, and deep rooted political corruption. The storyline unfolds against the backdrop of intense political turmoil surrounding the inauguration of the Ram Mandir. What begins as a series of violent incidents soon reveals a darker conspiracy when a determined journalist takes up the investigation. The narrative exposes offshore accounts and funding networks behind the to violence and which in a way disrupt the sanctity of the sacred land of Ayodhya.
It is a blend of investigative journalism with political intrigue which keeps the reader sit along the full story. This is one of the few political thrillers I picked up after a long time, and it proved to be a compelling read. It is definitely worth the time.
It is a blend of investigative journalism with political intrigue which keeps the reader sit along the full story. This is one of the few political thrillers I picked up after a long time, and it proved to be a compelling read. It is definitely worth the time.
January 23, 2026
Shadows Over Ayodhya by Anuj Tiwari is a political crime thriller set against the sensitive backdrop of Ayodhya, where religion, power, media, and politics intersect. The story brings together investigation, moral dilemmas, and human emotions, creating a tense atmosphere that feels grounded throughout.
This was my first book by Anuj Tiwari, and it worked well for me. The writing is confident and engaging, drawing me in from the beginning and maintaining the pace till the end. The characters are written clearly, each serving a purpose in the narrative and adding depth to the story.
What stood out to me the most was the ending. It felt fitting and honest to the direction the story had taken. I closed the book feeling satisfied, with the story lingering in my thoughts even after I finished reading.
This was my first book by Anuj Tiwari, and it worked well for me. The writing is confident and engaging, drawing me in from the beginning and maintaining the pace till the end. The characters are written clearly, each serving a purpose in the narrative and adding depth to the story.
What stood out to me the most was the ending. It felt fitting and honest to the direction the story had taken. I closed the book feeling satisfied, with the story lingering in my thoughts even after I finished reading.
January 29, 2026
"Kuch log kursi ke liye raajneeti karte hain....aur kuch raajneeti se desh ki kursi bachaate hain...'
India is a land of diversity but no matter how many differences the nation experience the urge to hold political power remains the same.
Setup around the land of Lord Ram,here comes a political thriller which will take you into the foothills of Ayodhya where awaits events that will shatter the entire nation in a drastic manner.
Enter the journey of SP Naveen Shukla joining hands with a fearless journalist,Nikhat Sherwani who'd find every possible way to expose the culprits looking forward to blow the holy soil of Ayodhya.
A gripping and nail-biting read to be intrigued by leaving with no air of boredom for the reader to experience thriller at its level best.
India is a land of diversity but no matter how many differences the nation experience the urge to hold political power remains the same.
Setup around the land of Lord Ram,here comes a political thriller which will take you into the foothills of Ayodhya where awaits events that will shatter the entire nation in a drastic manner.
Enter the journey of SP Naveen Shukla joining hands with a fearless journalist,Nikhat Sherwani who'd find every possible way to expose the culprits looking forward to blow the holy soil of Ayodhya.
A gripping and nail-biting read to be intrigued by leaving with no air of boredom for the reader to experience thriller at its level best.
January 23, 2026
Shadows Over Ayodhya is a sharp political crime thriller that blends suspense with disturbing realism. The investigation-driven plot, rooted in corruption and hidden power, feels frighteningly plausible. What stayed with me most was how faith and fear are portrayed as forces that can both protect and destroy. A fast, gripping read that leaves you thinking long after it ends.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews