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THE JASMINE MURDERS: An Uma-Jayan Mystery
When Uma moves to Manamadurai, a dismal backwater town, with her husband, Jayan, who has been posted there as the police chief, she is immediately uneasy. Despite its sleepy exterior, there have been undercurrents of communal tension and violence for years. Moreover, Jayan’s predecessor, ASP Manu, dubbed ‘a brute and a reprobate’ by the locals, met a gruesome end, and the aftershocks persist.
Within days of their arrival, Uma’s worst fears come true. A man arrives at Uma and Jayan’s doorstep, holding the severed head of a woman, the jasmine in her braid till intact. This is only the beginning of what turns out to be a long chain of grisly, interlinked events that threaten to destroy Manamadurai’s peace as well as the precarious marital bliss of Uma and Jayan.
Meanwhile, there’s a theft at the local zamindar’s house, and a secret long buried by the family is threatening to surface. Uma soon finds herself at the heart of the mystery, as she becomes privy to a covert network of gossip and hearsay. And over this grim tableau, a severe cyclone is brewing.
As Jayan grapples with the ever-widening vortex of fear, suspicion, and criminal behaviour that the murder of the woman has set in motion, Uma joins forces with her husband and makes a startling discovery that breaks the case wide open and leads to the truth. Twisted and ingenious, The Jasmine Murders is a brilliant debut.
Within days of their arrival, Uma’s worst fears come true. A man arrives at Uma and Jayan’s doorstep, holding the severed head of a woman, the jasmine in her braid till intact. This is only the beginning of what turns out to be a long chain of grisly, interlinked events that threaten to destroy Manamadurai’s peace as well as the precarious marital bliss of Uma and Jayan.
Meanwhile, there’s a theft at the local zamindar’s house, and a secret long buried by the family is threatening to surface. Uma soon finds herself at the heart of the mystery, as she becomes privy to a covert network of gossip and hearsay. And over this grim tableau, a severe cyclone is brewing.
As Jayan grapples with the ever-widening vortex of fear, suspicion, and criminal behaviour that the murder of the woman has set in motion, Uma joins forces with her husband and makes a startling discovery that breaks the case wide open and leads to the truth. Twisted and ingenious, The Jasmine Murders is a brilliant debut.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 25, 2026
79 people want to read
About the author
Roopa Unnikrishnan
2 books3 followersRoopa Unnikrishnan is an award-winning author, Rhodes Scholar, Arjuna Award recipient, and Commonwealth Games gold medalist in rifle shooting. After years spent guiding global companies through high-stakes strategy and innovation challenges, she now channels that same curiosity into crafting whodunits.
Her nonfiction debut, The Career Catapult, won the Independent Press Award, but with The Jasmine Murders, Roopa joyfully returns to the storytelling instincts that once made her Oxford thesis ‘too entertaining’. Her essays on strategy and creativity have appeared in Knowledge@Wharton and the Economic Times.
Roopa lives in New York City with her professor husband, their beagle Tara, and an ever-growing stash of notebooks filled with clues, red herrings, and suspicious characters. Her twins, Durga and Krishna, have launched into the world—though they still occasionally serve as sounding boards for particularly devious plots.
Her nonfiction debut, The Career Catapult, won the Independent Press Award, but with The Jasmine Murders, Roopa joyfully returns to the storytelling instincts that once made her Oxford thesis ‘too entertaining’. Her essays on strategy and creativity have appeared in Knowledge@Wharton and the Economic Times.
Roopa lives in New York City with her professor husband, their beagle Tara, and an ever-growing stash of notebooks filled with clues, red herrings, and suspicious characters. Her twins, Durga and Krishna, have launched into the world—though they still occasionally serve as sounding boards for particularly devious plots.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 4, 2026
The Jasmine Murders by Roopa Unnikrishnan is a murder mystery set in the backdrop of Tamil Nadu in the 1960s. Uma and Jayan shift to Manamadurai where Jayan has been posted as a police officer. One horrifying incident happens soon enough and the young couple are thrust into a darker web of crime.
The story is told from the POVs of Uma and Jayan. I loved the dynamic between the two of them. It added a layer of depth to the character development. The Jasmine Murders also explores societal norms and how cultural differences between Kerala and Tamil Nadu play a role in the story. Themes such as neglect during childhood,infidelity and communal violence are also explored in the book. It feels refreshing to read about these in the backdrop of the mystery.
The writing is simple and easy but feels clunky at places. I am not a fan of how the colloquial Tamil language is done in the book. I wish they had asked a native speaker to proofread those parts. It kills the vibe,for lack of a simpler word. The middle part of the book drags for a while but it picks up at the end.
A good attempt but falls short because of some proofreading and editing errors. I might be a picky reader though.
The story is told from the POVs of Uma and Jayan. I loved the dynamic between the two of them. It added a layer of depth to the character development. The Jasmine Murders also explores societal norms and how cultural differences between Kerala and Tamil Nadu play a role in the story. Themes such as neglect during childhood,infidelity and communal violence are also explored in the book. It feels refreshing to read about these in the backdrop of the mystery.
The writing is simple and easy but feels clunky at places. I am not a fan of how the colloquial Tamil language is done in the book. I wish they had asked a native speaker to proofread those parts. It kills the vibe,for lack of a simpler word. The middle part of the book drags for a while but it picks up at the end.
A good attempt but falls short because of some proofreading and editing errors. I might be a picky reader though.
February 1, 2026
If you’re looking for a crime thriller that feels deeply Indian, rooted in South Indian culture, and still keeps the suspense alive Jasmine Murders is a very interesting read.
Set in Tamil Nadu during the 1960s, the story follows a young couple, Jayan and Uma, who shift from Kerala to Tamil Nadu after Jayan is posted as a police officer. Just when life is starting to settle, one morning a man reaches their doorstep carrying a horrifying truth the chopped head of his wife, along with a story that becomes the beginning of a much darker chain of events. Soon, the city begins to witness more murders and crimes, and the mystery slowly unfolds in layers.
What I genuinely liked is how this book isn’t only about crime it’s also about society. The author shows how crime operates within an Indian setting, how information spreads through everyday people, and how helpers, households, and women’s circles often become the fastest “network” of communication. That part felt extremely real and familiar, because in Indian society, news travels faster than the police sometimes.
Another strong aspect is how the book highlights cultural and regional differences how Kerala is progressing culturally, and how Tamil Nadu has its own lifestyle, rhythm, and challenges, including the impact of floods, which adds another layer of realism. The story also touches themes like infidelity, emotional neglect, and how a child raised without love or stability can be shaped into something frightening later. Along with that, there are social tensions like Hindu-Muslim dynamics, making the book feel more grounded in real-world India rather than just being a fictional crime plot.
The narration is done in two perspectives Jayan’s (the police officer trying to solve the case) and Uma’s (his wife, slowly stepping into this new life and also trying to play detective). I really enjoyed Uma’s character development how she slowly gets used to being an ASP’s wife, and how her curiosity and involvement in the mysteries grows naturally. Jayan’s patience and his willingness to listen to Uma also felt refreshing he doesn’t dismiss her, and that dynamic adds warmth to an otherwise dark story.
The writing style is simple, fast-paced, and easy to read, and the book comes with a trigger warning, which is important. The beginning was definitely gripping, and while the middle felt a little slow for me, I still appreciated how the author kept the story rooted in Indian society and its realities.
Overall, Jasmine Murders feels like the kind of crime thriller that could easily be adapted into a strong Indian movie or web-series it gives that “watching a movie” experience with regional depth, mystery, and social layers.
Set in Tamil Nadu during the 1960s, the story follows a young couple, Jayan and Uma, who shift from Kerala to Tamil Nadu after Jayan is posted as a police officer. Just when life is starting to settle, one morning a man reaches their doorstep carrying a horrifying truth the chopped head of his wife, along with a story that becomes the beginning of a much darker chain of events. Soon, the city begins to witness more murders and crimes, and the mystery slowly unfolds in layers.
What I genuinely liked is how this book isn’t only about crime it’s also about society. The author shows how crime operates within an Indian setting, how information spreads through everyday people, and how helpers, households, and women’s circles often become the fastest “network” of communication. That part felt extremely real and familiar, because in Indian society, news travels faster than the police sometimes.
Another strong aspect is how the book highlights cultural and regional differences how Kerala is progressing culturally, and how Tamil Nadu has its own lifestyle, rhythm, and challenges, including the impact of floods, which adds another layer of realism. The story also touches themes like infidelity, emotional neglect, and how a child raised without love or stability can be shaped into something frightening later. Along with that, there are social tensions like Hindu-Muslim dynamics, making the book feel more grounded in real-world India rather than just being a fictional crime plot.
The narration is done in two perspectives Jayan’s (the police officer trying to solve the case) and Uma’s (his wife, slowly stepping into this new life and also trying to play detective). I really enjoyed Uma’s character development how she slowly gets used to being an ASP’s wife, and how her curiosity and involvement in the mysteries grows naturally. Jayan’s patience and his willingness to listen to Uma also felt refreshing he doesn’t dismiss her, and that dynamic adds warmth to an otherwise dark story.
The writing style is simple, fast-paced, and easy to read, and the book comes with a trigger warning, which is important. The beginning was definitely gripping, and while the middle felt a little slow for me, I still appreciated how the author kept the story rooted in Indian society and its realities.
Overall, Jasmine Murders feels like the kind of crime thriller that could easily be adapted into a strong Indian movie or web-series it gives that “watching a movie” experience with regional depth, mystery, and social layers.
February 4, 2026
📑THE JASMINE MURDERS: An Uma-Jayan Mystery by Roopa Unnikrishnan
Some books announce their intent quietly. The Jasmine Murders does the opposite—it grips you by the throat from the very first image and refuses to loosen its hold.
A man walking through the stillness of a backwater town, carrying a severed woman’s head in his hand. Jasmine flowers still intact in her braid.
That image alone tells you this is not going to be a comfortable read, and that’s exactly its power.
Set in Manamadurai, Tamil Nadu, in December 1964, the novel unfolds against a deceptively sleepy landscape. When Uma and her husband Jayan move there following his posting as the new ASP, unease settles in almost immediately. The town is steeped in old resentments, whispered violence, and the shadow of Jayan’s predecessor—brutal, feared, and mysteriously dead. What should have been a fresh start becomes a descent into something far darker when the man carrying the severed head walks straight up to their porch, bows calmly.
From that chilling moment, the story spirals into a series of interconnected murders; each distinct, each disturbing, and each peeling back another layer of Manamadurai’s carefully guarded secrets. Alongside the killings runs a seemingly unrelated theft at the local zamindar’s house, hinting at an old family secret that refuses to stay buried. Over everything looms an approaching cyclone, mirroring the moral and emotional turbulence brewing beneath the town’s fragile calm.
What truly elevates The Jasmine Murders is Uma. She isn’t a police officer, nor does she wield official authority. Instead, she becomes the quiet intelligence behind the investigation; observant, intuitive, and deeply perceptive. Through her access to gossip, silences, and village hearsay, she uncovers truths that power and position alone cannot reach. Watching her organically step into this role is one of the novel’s most rewarding aspects. The partnership between Uma and Jayan feels grounded and refreshingly rational, especially as they push back against superstition, fear, and easy explanations.
The Jasmine Murders is not just a whodunit; it’s a why-and-how-did-we-get-here kind of mystery. Atmospheric, unsettling, and thoughtful, it’s a compelling read for anyone who enjoys crime fiction rooted in place, history, and social reality. If you’re looking for a mystery that lingers long after the final page and nudges you to question easy truths, this one is absolutely worth your time.
Some books announce their intent quietly. The Jasmine Murders does the opposite—it grips you by the throat from the very first image and refuses to loosen its hold.
A man walking through the stillness of a backwater town, carrying a severed woman’s head in his hand. Jasmine flowers still intact in her braid.
That image alone tells you this is not going to be a comfortable read, and that’s exactly its power.
Set in Manamadurai, Tamil Nadu, in December 1964, the novel unfolds against a deceptively sleepy landscape. When Uma and her husband Jayan move there following his posting as the new ASP, unease settles in almost immediately. The town is steeped in old resentments, whispered violence, and the shadow of Jayan’s predecessor—brutal, feared, and mysteriously dead. What should have been a fresh start becomes a descent into something far darker when the man carrying the severed head walks straight up to their porch, bows calmly.
From that chilling moment, the story spirals into a series of interconnected murders; each distinct, each disturbing, and each peeling back another layer of Manamadurai’s carefully guarded secrets. Alongside the killings runs a seemingly unrelated theft at the local zamindar’s house, hinting at an old family secret that refuses to stay buried. Over everything looms an approaching cyclone, mirroring the moral and emotional turbulence brewing beneath the town’s fragile calm.
What truly elevates The Jasmine Murders is Uma. She isn’t a police officer, nor does she wield official authority. Instead, she becomes the quiet intelligence behind the investigation; observant, intuitive, and deeply perceptive. Through her access to gossip, silences, and village hearsay, she uncovers truths that power and position alone cannot reach. Watching her organically step into this role is one of the novel’s most rewarding aspects. The partnership between Uma and Jayan feels grounded and refreshingly rational, especially as they push back against superstition, fear, and easy explanations.
The Jasmine Murders is not just a whodunit; it’s a why-and-how-did-we-get-here kind of mystery. Atmospheric, unsettling, and thoughtful, it’s a compelling read for anyone who enjoys crime fiction rooted in place, history, and social reality. If you’re looking for a mystery that lingers long after the final page and nudges you to question easy truths, this one is absolutely worth your time.
January 30, 2026
"The Jasmine Murders" is a gripping crime novel set in a small town called Manamadurai. The story begins when Uma moves to this town with her husband Jayan, who has just been appointed as the local police chief. At first, the town seems calm, familiar, and safe, but very soon, that feeling starts to fade.
The turning point of the story is disturbing and unforgettable. A man appears with the severed head of a woman, jasmine flowers still in her hair. Jasmine, which usually stands for beauty, purity, and everyday life, suddenly becomes a symbol of fear. This contrast is one of the strongest elements of the book and stays with the reader throughout.
The story is not told like a typical fast-paced crime thriller. Instead, it slowly builds tension. Uma is not a detective, but she is curious, sensitive, and observant. Her reactions feel real. As she watches the town and the people around her, she begins to notice small things, strange behaviour, hidden fear, and unspoken truths. Through her eyes, the reader starts to understand that something is deeply wrong beneath the town’s quiet surface.
Jayan handles the official investigation, but the story also focuses on the personal side of the crimes. The author shows how gossip spreads, how people hide secrets, and how power and social status influence behaviour. The town itself feels like a character, one that knows the truth but prefers silence.
The writing is simple yet effective. There are no unnecessary twists or dramatic scenes just for shock value. The author allows the story to unfold naturally, keeping the reader engaged through mood and atmosphere rather than constant action.
What makes "The Jasmine Murders" special is that it is not only about solving a crime. It is about society, silence, and the consequences of ignoring uncomfortable truths. The ending ties the story together well and leaves you thinking even after the book is finished.
Overall, this is a thoughtful and well-written mystery that combines crime with emotional depth. It is a good choice for readers who enjoy slow-burn mysteries with strong characters and a meaningful setting.
The turning point of the story is disturbing and unforgettable. A man appears with the severed head of a woman, jasmine flowers still in her hair. Jasmine, which usually stands for beauty, purity, and everyday life, suddenly becomes a symbol of fear. This contrast is one of the strongest elements of the book and stays with the reader throughout.
The story is not told like a typical fast-paced crime thriller. Instead, it slowly builds tension. Uma is not a detective, but she is curious, sensitive, and observant. Her reactions feel real. As she watches the town and the people around her, she begins to notice small things, strange behaviour, hidden fear, and unspoken truths. Through her eyes, the reader starts to understand that something is deeply wrong beneath the town’s quiet surface.
Jayan handles the official investigation, but the story also focuses on the personal side of the crimes. The author shows how gossip spreads, how people hide secrets, and how power and social status influence behaviour. The town itself feels like a character, one that knows the truth but prefers silence.
The writing is simple yet effective. There are no unnecessary twists or dramatic scenes just for shock value. The author allows the story to unfold naturally, keeping the reader engaged through mood and atmosphere rather than constant action.
What makes "The Jasmine Murders" special is that it is not only about solving a crime. It is about society, silence, and the consequences of ignoring uncomfortable truths. The ending ties the story together well and leaves you thinking even after the book is finished.
Overall, this is a thoughtful and well-written mystery that combines crime with emotional depth. It is a good choice for readers who enjoy slow-burn mysteries with strong characters and a meaningful setting.
February 17, 2026
the jasmine murders by roopa unnikrishnan
genre: murder mystery
My 💭:
[17/2/26 9.01 PM]
Okay so the horror of this story is giving me the creeps! Oh god I'll need to watch some comedy videos in order to fall asleep tonight.
The story is set in newly independent India in the year of 1964. And the sheer amount of toxic patriarchy it showed OMG! Literally I felt like vomiting at parts. Suddenly I understand the need of 4B movement in India as well. The way the women were treated, like domesticated animals! My blood was boiling while reading certain parts of the story. I'm thankful to the author for showing us the reality of women's history in our country.
The story opens with Uma and her husband, Jayan (who's an ASP) having to face an incident of a creepy version of honour killing where a husband has beheaded his wife in suspicion of adultery. That too because it was his mother who suspected his wife, not him! Arghhh I seriously don't understand that how can a woman destroy a fellow woman's life in the name of motherly love? Is that even love or brainwashing? Then finally more murders started and the plot shifts to regional socio political issues, unexpected emotional and almost incestuous stuff and of course, the universal issue of torturing women. I swear, my want of justice for the women kept fuelling me to read and read, while reading through my office meetings.
I really liked the women of this story. Such strong women! I'm not even 1% strong as them! The men were equally irritating to me, except Dev, somewhat. Even Jayan irritated me at certain points. I mean, literally his wife Uma solved the murder and he kept referring to her as the policeman's wife!! Ughhh! I'm sorry but I cannot tolerate it when I see a woman's identity getting overshadowed by a man.
Really enjoyed reading this book. The darkness of it will stay with me for a long long time. Thank you author @roopa for writing such a realistic murder mystery story. Women authors - always the best!
And yes, jasmines will never be the same for me anymore.
genre: murder mystery
My 💭:
[17/2/26 9.01 PM]
Okay so the horror of this story is giving me the creeps! Oh god I'll need to watch some comedy videos in order to fall asleep tonight.
The story is set in newly independent India in the year of 1964. And the sheer amount of toxic patriarchy it showed OMG! Literally I felt like vomiting at parts. Suddenly I understand the need of 4B movement in India as well. The way the women were treated, like domesticated animals! My blood was boiling while reading certain parts of the story. I'm thankful to the author for showing us the reality of women's history in our country.
The story opens with Uma and her husband, Jayan (who's an ASP) having to face an incident of a creepy version of honour killing where a husband has beheaded his wife in suspicion of adultery. That too because it was his mother who suspected his wife, not him! Arghhh I seriously don't understand that how can a woman destroy a fellow woman's life in the name of motherly love? Is that even love or brainwashing? Then finally more murders started and the plot shifts to regional socio political issues, unexpected emotional and almost incestuous stuff and of course, the universal issue of torturing women. I swear, my want of justice for the women kept fuelling me to read and read, while reading through my office meetings.
I really liked the women of this story. Such strong women! I'm not even 1% strong as them! The men were equally irritating to me, except Dev, somewhat. Even Jayan irritated me at certain points. I mean, literally his wife Uma solved the murder and he kept referring to her as the policeman's wife!! Ughhh! I'm sorry but I cannot tolerate it when I see a woman's identity getting overshadowed by a man.
Really enjoyed reading this book. The darkness of it will stay with me for a long long time. Thank you author @roopa for writing such a realistic murder mystery story. Women authors - always the best!
And yes, jasmines will never be the same for me anymore.
February 4, 2026
A MAN. A DOORSTEP. A SEVERED HEAD with JASMINE in her hair. That's how this story begins and that's when I stopped breathing for a moment.
Set in the quiet town of Manamadurai, this story follows Uma and her husband Jayan, the newly appointed police chief, whose peaceful life is shattered by a brutal murder. As fear spreads, hidden secrets and old grudges slowly come to light, with Uma quietly drawn into the mystery.
This book hooked me right from the first scene. The opening is chilling, unsettling, and impossible to forget. A severed head, jasmine flowers, and a silent town...it immediately sets the mood and makes you want to know what lies beneath this calm surface.
What I loved most about The Jasmine Murders is its slow and steady storytelling. This is not a fast-paced, action-packed thriller. Instead, it builds tension quietly, through conversations, silences, and small details. Every chapter adds a little more weight to the atmosphere, making the town itself feel like a living character.
Uma is a refreshing protagonist..... sensitive, curious, and deeply relatable. Through her eyes, we notice strange behaviour, unspoken fears, and hidden emotions. Jayan, on the other hand, represents duty and responsibility, and watching him balance work and personal life adds depth to the story. Their relationship feels realistic and grounded.
The writing is simple yet effective, focusing more on mood, setting, and character than shock value. The looming cyclone in the background works beautifully as a metaphor for the emotional storm within the town. The book also explores themes of silence, power, gossip, and social hierarchy, making it more than just a murder mystery.
The ending is thoughtful and true to the tone of the story. It doesn't offer easy answers but leaves you reflecting on the cost of hidden truths.
Overall, The Jasmine Murders is haunting, layered, and perfect for readers who love atmospheric mysteries.
Set in the quiet town of Manamadurai, this story follows Uma and her husband Jayan, the newly appointed police chief, whose peaceful life is shattered by a brutal murder. As fear spreads, hidden secrets and old grudges slowly come to light, with Uma quietly drawn into the mystery.
This book hooked me right from the first scene. The opening is chilling, unsettling, and impossible to forget. A severed head, jasmine flowers, and a silent town...it immediately sets the mood and makes you want to know what lies beneath this calm surface.
What I loved most about The Jasmine Murders is its slow and steady storytelling. This is not a fast-paced, action-packed thriller. Instead, it builds tension quietly, through conversations, silences, and small details. Every chapter adds a little more weight to the atmosphere, making the town itself feel like a living character.
Uma is a refreshing protagonist..... sensitive, curious, and deeply relatable. Through her eyes, we notice strange behaviour, unspoken fears, and hidden emotions. Jayan, on the other hand, represents duty and responsibility, and watching him balance work and personal life adds depth to the story. Their relationship feels realistic and grounded.
The writing is simple yet effective, focusing more on mood, setting, and character than shock value. The looming cyclone in the background works beautifully as a metaphor for the emotional storm within the town. The book also explores themes of silence, power, gossip, and social hierarchy, making it more than just a murder mystery.
The ending is thoughtful and true to the tone of the story. It doesn't offer easy answers but leaves you reflecting on the cost of hidden truths.
Overall, The Jasmine Murders is haunting, layered, and perfect for readers who love atmospheric mysteries.
February 4, 2026
Some towns look quiet.
Too quiet.
Like they’re hiding something beneath the dust and silence.
Manamadurai is one of those places.
At first glance, it’s just a sleepy backwater town. Slow days. Familiar faces. Nothing unusual.
But within pages of The Jasmine Murders, you realize — this calm is a lie.
Because one evening, a man shows up at Uma and Jayan’s doorstep…
holding a severed head.
The jasmine flowers in the woman’s braid still fresh.
And just like that — the nightmare begins.
What I loved most about this book is how it’s not just a murder mystery. It’s an atmospheric slow-burn thriller where tension creeps under your skin.
Uma, new to town and already uneasy, becomes our eyes and ears. Through gossip networks, whispers, half-truths, and local secrets, she slowly pieces together a puzzle that even the police can’t fully see. And honestly? Watching her step into the investigation alongside her husband felt so refreshing.
She’s not just “the cop’s wife.”
She’s sharp. Observant. Brave.
And crucial to the mystery.
Meanwhile:
⚠️ communal tensions simmer
⚠️ old family secrets resurface
⚠️ a theft complicates everything
⚠️ and a cyclone looms like a metaphor for the chaos about to explode
The setting almost becomes a character itself — heavy, humid, claustrophobic. You can feel the storm coming, both outside and inside the town.
Roopa Unnikrishnan’s writing is crisp and cinematic. The twists are smart, not forced. And just when you think you’ve figured it out — the story takes another dark turn.
It’s gritty. Disturbing. Clever.
And completely unputdownable.
If you enjoy mysteries where secrets unravel layer by layer, where small towns hide big horrors, and where psychological tension matters as much as crime — this one is a must-read.
Too quiet.
Like they’re hiding something beneath the dust and silence.
Manamadurai is one of those places.
At first glance, it’s just a sleepy backwater town. Slow days. Familiar faces. Nothing unusual.
But within pages of The Jasmine Murders, you realize — this calm is a lie.
Because one evening, a man shows up at Uma and Jayan’s doorstep…
holding a severed head.
The jasmine flowers in the woman’s braid still fresh.
And just like that — the nightmare begins.
What I loved most about this book is how it’s not just a murder mystery. It’s an atmospheric slow-burn thriller where tension creeps under your skin.
Uma, new to town and already uneasy, becomes our eyes and ears. Through gossip networks, whispers, half-truths, and local secrets, she slowly pieces together a puzzle that even the police can’t fully see. And honestly? Watching her step into the investigation alongside her husband felt so refreshing.
She’s not just “the cop’s wife.”
She’s sharp. Observant. Brave.
And crucial to the mystery.
Meanwhile:
⚠️ communal tensions simmer
⚠️ old family secrets resurface
⚠️ a theft complicates everything
⚠️ and a cyclone looms like a metaphor for the chaos about to explode
The setting almost becomes a character itself — heavy, humid, claustrophobic. You can feel the storm coming, both outside and inside the town.
Roopa Unnikrishnan’s writing is crisp and cinematic. The twists are smart, not forced. And just when you think you’ve figured it out — the story takes another dark turn.
It’s gritty. Disturbing. Clever.
And completely unputdownable.
If you enjoy mysteries where secrets unravel layer by layer, where small towns hide big horrors, and where psychological tension matters as much as crime — this one is a must-read.
February 10, 2026
The Jasmine Murders by Roopa Unnikrishnan is a mysterious book delving deeper into the heart of a murder mystery that looms over in the small town of Manamadurai. Beginning with the suspicious scene of a man arriving at the doorsteps of a newly posted police officer carrying a head of a woman in his hand with jasmines tucked in her hair, This book takes a drastic turn when we see multiple shocking murders happening in the town which are somehow interlinked with the same pattern. The book gets even more interesting when Jayan (Chief Police officer) & Uma (Jayan's wife and a key lady in solving all the cases exceptionally) come into the picture and decode the mysteries of the jasmine murders.
One of my favourite aspects of this book was its slow tone. It doesn't rush at all but takes you slowly into the story and keeps you hooked till the very end. Uma's character really wins your heart and the way she unveils every mystery is truly commendable. Her integrity and curious side truly makes her a perfect leading lady of the book. On the other hand, Jayan's Commitment to his work and key role in solving the cases makes this book even more interesting. The author's impactful narration and suspenseful storytelling keeps you hooked throughout the book, Allowing you to immerse yourself in the thrilling world of Secrets, Suspense and Mysteries.
Overall, The Jasmine Murders is a well written crime thriller book transporting readers to the realms of Thrill, Depth and Resonance. The author's commendable world building and realistic characters makes this book even more relatable and adds a touch of connectivity to it. In conclusion, I will highly recommend this gripping book to all those readers who are looking for an adventurous yet deep Suspense thriller.
One of my favourite aspects of this book was its slow tone. It doesn't rush at all but takes you slowly into the story and keeps you hooked till the very end. Uma's character really wins your heart and the way she unveils every mystery is truly commendable. Her integrity and curious side truly makes her a perfect leading lady of the book. On the other hand, Jayan's Commitment to his work and key role in solving the cases makes this book even more interesting. The author's impactful narration and suspenseful storytelling keeps you hooked throughout the book, Allowing you to immerse yourself in the thrilling world of Secrets, Suspense and Mysteries.
Overall, The Jasmine Murders is a well written crime thriller book transporting readers to the realms of Thrill, Depth and Resonance. The author's commendable world building and realistic characters makes this book even more relatable and adds a touch of connectivity to it. In conclusion, I will highly recommend this gripping book to all those readers who are looking for an adventurous yet deep Suspense thriller.
January 28, 2026
Imagine you’re just sitting there with your partner having tea, and a man walks up to your house carrying his wife’s head. Honestly, that opening hook in this book is one of the most chilling things I’ve read lately. The image of the jasmine flower still tucked into her hair is just haunting, and it immediately pulls you into the dark side of this small town, Manamadurai. It’s a total shock to the system that sets the tone for the rest of the book.
The plot doesn't just rely on that shock, though; it’s actually a really steady, atmospheric burn. As the mystery unfolds, you realize it’s not just a crime story—it’s about the heavy silences and the secrets people in this town have been protecting for years. I loved how the tension builds alongside a massive cyclone that’s heading their way. Uma’s involvement in the case feels so natural because she’s driven by her own curiosity and empathy, which makes the whole thing feel more personal and less like a standard police drama.
What really stayed with me was how the writing makes the setting feel so alive. You can almost feel the humidity and the weight of the town's history. Uma and Jayan are such relatable leads—one observant and human, the other bringing a quiet strength to the mess. It’s the kind of mystery that lingers in your mind, reminding you that sometimes the darkest truths are hiding in the most familiar spaces. If you’re looking for a thriller that has actual soul and grit, definitely give this one a go.
The plot doesn't just rely on that shock, though; it’s actually a really steady, atmospheric burn. As the mystery unfolds, you realize it’s not just a crime story—it’s about the heavy silences and the secrets people in this town have been protecting for years. I loved how the tension builds alongside a massive cyclone that’s heading their way. Uma’s involvement in the case feels so natural because she’s driven by her own curiosity and empathy, which makes the whole thing feel more personal and less like a standard police drama.
What really stayed with me was how the writing makes the setting feel so alive. You can almost feel the humidity and the weight of the town's history. Uma and Jayan are such relatable leads—one observant and human, the other bringing a quiet strength to the mess. It’s the kind of mystery that lingers in your mind, reminding you that sometimes the darkest truths are hiding in the most familiar spaces. If you’re looking for a thriller that has actual soul and grit, definitely give this one a go.
January 26, 2026
A severed head, a hidden town, and a storm closing in "The Jasmine Murders" begins where most thrillers peak.
This story pulls you into Manamadurai, a seemingly quiet town thick with unspoken tension and old violence. When a man appears at the doorstep of Uma and Jayanthe new police chief and his wife holding a woman’s severed head, it sets off a chain of grim events that unravel the town’s secrets and test their marriage.
What makes this book so gripping is its slow, steady build of dread. The tension doesn’t come from chase scenes or loud action, but from whispers, hidden pasts, and the quiet fear in people’s eyes. Uma is not a detective, but a listener, and through her we uncover layers of gossip, betrayal, and long-buried shame.
Jayan carries the weight of his job and the shadow of his brutal predecessor, trying to bring order to a place where trust is broken. As a cyclone approaches, mirroring the turmoil within the town, Uma and Jayan must work together not just to solve the crime, but to survive it.
If you enjoy mysteries where the setting feels like a character, and where suspense comes from secrets and silences, this book will hold you until the last page. It’s a haunting, atmospheric thriller perfect for anyone who believes the darkest truths are often hidden in the quietest places.
This story pulls you into Manamadurai, a seemingly quiet town thick with unspoken tension and old violence. When a man appears at the doorstep of Uma and Jayanthe new police chief and his wife holding a woman’s severed head, it sets off a chain of grim events that unravel the town’s secrets and test their marriage.
What makes this book so gripping is its slow, steady build of dread. The tension doesn’t come from chase scenes or loud action, but from whispers, hidden pasts, and the quiet fear in people’s eyes. Uma is not a detective, but a listener, and through her we uncover layers of gossip, betrayal, and long-buried shame.
Jayan carries the weight of his job and the shadow of his brutal predecessor, trying to bring order to a place where trust is broken. As a cyclone approaches, mirroring the turmoil within the town, Uma and Jayan must work together not just to solve the crime, but to survive it.
If you enjoy mysteries where the setting feels like a character, and where suspense comes from secrets and silences, this book will hold you until the last page. It’s a haunting, atmospheric thriller perfect for anyone who believes the darkest truths are often hidden in the quietest places.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Roopa Unnikrishnan’s debut novel grips you from the start with a gruesome image that immediately disrupts the quiet of the small town of Manamadurai, India. A man stands at the police chief’s door holding a severed head, with jasmine flowers still clinging to the hair. This opening sets the tone for a mystery that is as much about the town as it is about the crime itself. The writing is precise, which makes the macabre elements of the mystery disturbingly vivid and even more gripping.
As the new police chief and his wife attempt to settle into the town, they find themselves entangled in a web of secrets, where the impending arrival of a cyclone mirrors the escalating social and political tensions. There is a sense of being a voyeur in a community that is deeply suspicious of outsiders, which adds to the reader’s empathy for the newcomer’s isolation. This novel haunted me not with cheap jump-scares, but with a deep, intellectual chill that persisted long after I turned the last page. A brilliant, high-stakes debut that proves the most beautiful settings can harbor the darkest secrets.
As the new police chief and his wife attempt to settle into the town, they find themselves entangled in a web of secrets, where the impending arrival of a cyclone mirrors the escalating social and political tensions. There is a sense of being a voyeur in a community that is deeply suspicious of outsiders, which adds to the reader’s empathy for the newcomer’s isolation. This novel haunted me not with cheap jump-scares, but with a deep, intellectual chill that persisted long after I turned the last page. A brilliant, high-stakes debut that proves the most beautiful settings can harbor the darkest secrets.
Review of advance copy received from Author
From the opening scenes I was pulled into Southern India of the 1960s, the heat, the heavy scents of flowering trees, the smoldering domestic conflicts and the “just so” procedures imprinted on the local government and police by the British Raj.
“Is that a head?”
This is a crime story, but its is so much more than the solving of murder and thievery or the administration of justice. It a scenic journey to another time and place with the background of tumultuous politics as the new Indian national government attempts to unify a multitude of cultures, Hindu, Muslim, Tamil, etc.
I love how the author’s facility with dialogue shapes the characters and juices the tension of the story. The characters are well drawn -and not just Uma and Jayan -also Bhai, Dev, Shanti, Kala and Ravi, even little Muthi. Ms. Unnikrishnan clearly has a perceptive understanding of psychology.
It kept me reading longer than I planned each time I opened it and I wanted my immersion in this world never to end.
“Is that a head?”
This is a crime story, but its is so much more than the solving of murder and thievery or the administration of justice. It a scenic journey to another time and place with the background of tumultuous politics as the new Indian national government attempts to unify a multitude of cultures, Hindu, Muslim, Tamil, etc.
I love how the author’s facility with dialogue shapes the characters and juices the tension of the story. The characters are well drawn -and not just Uma and Jayan -also Bhai, Dev, Shanti, Kala and Ravi, even little Muthi. Ms. Unnikrishnan clearly has a perceptive understanding of psychology.
It kept me reading longer than I planned each time I opened it and I wanted my immersion in this world never to end.
February 9, 2026
I went into this thinking it would be a simple historical murder mystery, but The Jasmine Murders had so much more to offer. Its a book set in 1960's South India, where Uma who's wedded to Jayan, the ASP in Manamadurai, through her quick wit and perceptive nature, finds a grisly connection between a string of robberies and the beheaded body of an out-of-towner.
In the small, sleeping town lies deception, caste and religion based discrimination, that has not only torn the community but also families. Especially when the previous ASP had been allegedly murdered due to communal disharmony, Uma does everything possible to keep Jayan safe. This book had me hooked, and the cultural nuances stood out effortlessly. It was a disturbing book no doubt, with the grim reality of power politics and gruesome murders and sexual exploitation coming into play. It was a harrowing read, so I recommend it to people who would be okay with some gore.
In the small, sleeping town lies deception, caste and religion based discrimination, that has not only torn the community but also families. Especially when the previous ASP had been allegedly murdered due to communal disharmony, Uma does everything possible to keep Jayan safe. This book had me hooked, and the cultural nuances stood out effortlessly. It was a disturbing book no doubt, with the grim reality of power politics and gruesome murders and sexual exploitation coming into play. It was a harrowing read, so I recommend it to people who would be okay with some gore.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you're a fan of engaging husband-and-wife sleuthing teams like Agatha Christie's Tommy and Tuppence Beresford, you'll enjoy this dazzling debut from Roopa Unnikrishnan. Newlyweds Uma and Jayan are just adjusting to police chief Jayan's new posting in a remote southern Indian hamlet, when a man shows up on their doorstep with a decapitated head... As deeply steeped in a sense of place as an aromatic curry, Uma and Jayan's detecting transports readers to a post-partition India where religious rifts, British Raj customs and gender norms form a combustible and enjoyable read.
February 16, 2026
In her debut fiction novel, Roopa Unnikrishnan takes us back to a time when women had a well-defined role and shows us how a strong and clever woman could still play it her own way. She paints a beautiful portrait of the young Uma adjusting to life with her new policeman husband, in an area of the country with a culture very different from her own. Roopa lets us discover the intricacies and hidden secrets of life in Southern India with Uma as we watch her deftly navigate domestic and community tensions and uncover the truth behind The Jasmine Murders.
January 27, 2026
A stranger at the door . A severed head . A braid still woven with Jasmine . It’s when Uma moves to Manamadurai with her husband who is a police chief . Her worst fears came true . Well written and an intresting plot .
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