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The Girl in Chains: She is safer in chains. Are you?
329 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 22, 2026
About the author
Devashish Sardana
6 books108 followersDevashish Sardana is the author of The Apple, an Amazon Bestseller which won the second prize among 5000 entries at the Amazon India Pen-to-Publish Literary Award 2019.
Devashish's second novel - The Girl in the Glass Case, a nail-biting psychological thriller - will be published by Penguin Random House in January 2022.
Devashish also writes 100-word thrillers on 10x10 Thrills, a blog on both Facebook and Instagram with 150,000+ followers. The blog reached over 12 million readers in 2020.
He lives in Singapore with his wife and college sweetheart, Megha. He currently flits across the globe selling hope in a jar (beauty creams).
Devashish's second novel - The Girl in the Glass Case, a nail-biting psychological thriller - will be published by Penguin Random House in January 2022.
Devashish also writes 100-word thrillers on 10x10 Thrills, a blog on both Facebook and Instagram with 150,000+ followers. The blog reached over 12 million readers in 2020.
He lives in Singapore with his wife and college sweetheart, Megha. He currently flits across the globe selling hope in a jar (beauty creams).
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
July 26, 2026
The Girl in Chains is psychological mystery thriller novel written by Devashish Sardana which is actually the fourth book in the series followed by “ The Girl in Glass Case “ , “ The Girl with Broken Dreams “ and “ The Girl on Fire .” The story opens with an assassination of influential political leader open fired in a rally and the girl shoot herself with same gun and yells a name “ Daayan. “ Our protagonist Simone Singh who is a CBI officer finds a pattern , streaks of murder happening with similar modus operandi which adds chilling psychological factor to the story giving room for various theories and enough red herrings to the reader.
With every new book in the series, the author has introduced new characters which makes it feels standalone but this time , the recurring characters are also present in the story which makes it a perfect mix of standalone as well as part of series. In the first book “ The girl in the glass case” had created layered , nuanced and had intricate storyline with the scope of experimentation and in second and third book he had seemed balanced keeping the elements just enough but with this third book in the series , he has hit home again , I felt the thrill and excitement of reading the first book again . Be it investigation scenes , placement of twists and red herrings, it was perfect to the last minute detail. Short chapters and constant twists will definitely keep you on the edge due to which I was saying “ One More Chapter “ and it turned out to be page turner for sure. Although I saw few things coming yet I totally devoured the book in few sittings. If you’re looking for psychological thriller with good pacing and tight storytelling , I would highly recommend this one.
With every new book in the series, the author has introduced new characters which makes it feels standalone but this time , the recurring characters are also present in the story which makes it a perfect mix of standalone as well as part of series. In the first book “ The girl in the glass case” had created layered , nuanced and had intricate storyline with the scope of experimentation and in second and third book he had seemed balanced keeping the elements just enough but with this third book in the series , he has hit home again , I felt the thrill and excitement of reading the first book again . Be it investigation scenes , placement of twists and red herrings, it was perfect to the last minute detail. Short chapters and constant twists will definitely keep you on the edge due to which I was saying “ One More Chapter “ and it turned out to be page turner for sure. Although I saw few things coming yet I totally devoured the book in few sittings. If you’re looking for psychological thriller with good pacing and tight storytelling , I would highly recommend this one.
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August 13, 2026
This is my fourth book by the author, so I was quite sure I was in for another thrilling ride. And as always, the author did not disappoint. Right from the first page, I was completely pulled into the story, and once I started reading, I simply couldn’t put it down until I reached the last page.
As I kept turning the pages, I found myself trying to figure out what would happen next, why the killings were taking place, and who could be behind them. Every time I thought I had figured something out, there was another twist or turn waiting.
The journey towards the final reveal remained incredibly satisfying. I did manage to guess who was behind the killings somewhere around the middle of the book, but the reason behind it was something I definitely did not see coming. The psychological angle added another layer of tension to the story, making me question every clue and suspect almost every character.
I loved the author's writing style. The language is simple, and the story flows smoothly despite all the twists and multiple characters. I also liked how every character had a purpose and was given importance, making the entire narrative seamless. The twists were cleverly placed, and I was never quite sure what I was going to discover on the next page!
The women characters were another highlight for me. The author has written them as strong, believable, and well-developed characters, giving them equal importance in a story that is driven by suspense and mystery.
I had loved Simone in the previous books, and seeing what she goes through in this one made me genuinely emotional. There was a moment when I actually thought we had lost Lucas, and for a while, I even suspected him of being the mastermind behind everything that was happening. Another character, Zoya, is someone I ended up falling in love with as well. And of course, Dia was Dia and the ending proved that once again! “Daayan”, on the other hand, was probably the darkest character of them all and honestly scared me a little too.
The final reveal brought everything together beautifully and left me satisfied, while also making me eager to know what comes next. I couldn’t put this book down, and now I’m already waiting to get my hands on the next one!
If you love psychological thrillers, unexpected twists, strong characters, and books that keep you guessing until the very end, this is definitely one you should pick up. And if you're the kind of reader who loves finishing a thriller in a single sitting, this one is perfect for you!
As I kept turning the pages, I found myself trying to figure out what would happen next, why the killings were taking place, and who could be behind them. Every time I thought I had figured something out, there was another twist or turn waiting.
The journey towards the final reveal remained incredibly satisfying. I did manage to guess who was behind the killings somewhere around the middle of the book, but the reason behind it was something I definitely did not see coming. The psychological angle added another layer of tension to the story, making me question every clue and suspect almost every character.
I loved the author's writing style. The language is simple, and the story flows smoothly despite all the twists and multiple characters. I also liked how every character had a purpose and was given importance, making the entire narrative seamless. The twists were cleverly placed, and I was never quite sure what I was going to discover on the next page!
The women characters were another highlight for me. The author has written them as strong, believable, and well-developed characters, giving them equal importance in a story that is driven by suspense and mystery.
I had loved Simone in the previous books, and seeing what she goes through in this one made me genuinely emotional. There was a moment when I actually thought we had lost Lucas, and for a while, I even suspected him of being the mastermind behind everything that was happening. Another character, Zoya, is someone I ended up falling in love with as well. And of course, Dia was Dia and the ending proved that once again! “Daayan”, on the other hand, was probably the darkest character of them all and honestly scared me a little too.
The final reveal brought everything together beautifully and left me satisfied, while also making me eager to know what comes next. I couldn’t put this book down, and now I’m already waiting to get my hands on the next one!
If you love psychological thrillers, unexpected twists, strong characters, and books that keep you guessing until the very end, this is definitely one you should pick up. And if you're the kind of reader who loves finishing a thriller in a single sitting, this one is perfect for you!
June 19, 2026
Omg I KNEW IT! I KNEW who the mastermind was throughout the book! The epilogue just proved it!!
Like any other books by the author, this was a pageturner too. The chapters short, the words easy to understand and an-edge-of-the-seat suspense that kept me gripped to the story till the end. When I read the blurb that ordinary people are shooting politicians and then shooting themselves, I knew that there was a mastermind behind their actions. Question is who. And also, all the so called killers have bottles of levodopa (a medicine for Parkinson's disease) at their house. So the situation was extremely tricky and hard to figure out.
First of all, I absolutely hated Lucas in this book. I am happy with what Simone did to him at the end of the book. Now, Simone, unfortunately had been too much stressed out by her ailing mother's release from jail, because she couldn't pick up the obvious trail of finding the suspects by the medicines - which is something Zoya did, right after she entered the scene. Oh yes, Zoya is also back in the story, though her warmth with Simone has lessened a bit, it seems. Anyway, I was also mad at Simone for not keeping an eye on her mother the day after the latter got released from the hospital - she could have avoided the you know what incident, grrr. Dia is an enigma as ever in this book as well, she's.... something else entirely. My favourite competent character of this story was Pius - the guy basically solved the bulk of the Daayan mystery.
It was truly an unputdownable read for me. But I wished the ending to be a bit different tbh - I wanted that particular person to receive their karma from doing all these...events. Now nothing to do but look forward to the next book, although I am really worried about Simone's mental health - she needs better friends pronto.
Like any other books by the author, this was a pageturner too. The chapters short, the words easy to understand and an-edge-of-the-seat suspense that kept me gripped to the story till the end. When I read the blurb that ordinary people are shooting politicians and then shooting themselves, I knew that there was a mastermind behind their actions. Question is who. And also, all the so called killers have bottles of levodopa (a medicine for Parkinson's disease) at their house. So the situation was extremely tricky and hard to figure out.
First of all, I absolutely hated Lucas in this book. I am happy with what Simone did to him at the end of the book. Now, Simone, unfortunately had been too much stressed out by her ailing mother's release from jail, because she couldn't pick up the obvious trail of finding the suspects by the medicines - which is something Zoya did, right after she entered the scene. Oh yes, Zoya is also back in the story, though her warmth with Simone has lessened a bit, it seems. Anyway, I was also mad at Simone for not keeping an eye on her mother the day after the latter got released from the hospital - she could have avoided the you know what incident, grrr. Dia is an enigma as ever in this book as well, she's.... something else entirely. My favourite competent character of this story was Pius - the guy basically solved the bulk of the Daayan mystery.
It was truly an unputdownable read for me. But I wished the ending to be a bit different tbh - I wanted that particular person to receive their karma from doing all these...events. Now nothing to do but look forward to the next book, although I am really worried about Simone's mental health - she needs better friends pronto.
July 7, 2026
📚 BOOK REVIEW
The Girl in Chains: She is safer in chains. Are you?
by Devashish Sardana
The Girl in Chains is the fifth book written by Devashish Sardana. It is an intense thriller along with a strong female leading character. The story starts with a girl who kills a prominent cabinet minister in a rally and then shoots herself in the middle of her forehead with the same gun. Every one cites terrorism, while some thinks that a suicide bomber is at play. But in reality it was a proper planned murder formulated with manipulation, power and greed.
The main character of the novel is CBI officer Simone Singh who is investigating the matter along with her partner Lucas. In her personal life she is facing different issues, her mother illness, her traumatic childhood etc. As they start unraveling the mystery behind the murder of cabinet minister three more ministers are killed in a similar way. With the last murder circumstances drastically changed and Simone's world come crashing over her again.
The mystery surrounding the the murder of ministers is kept in suspense throughout the story. As strings are pulled to reveal the truth, the witnesses are eliminated before they are found. It is an exiting thriller with a strong female character and an unpredictable plot. It explores themes such as control, manipulation, grief, corruption and deception. In the end I felt that this story is going to continue in the upcoming series.
The numerous plot twists combined with the presence of the name 'Daayan' keeps the readers engaged all the while. The writing style is fast paced which makes us hard to withdraw from the book. It contains a vivid image of Delhi which adds more depth to the narration.
It is an interesting compilation of crime, mystery, murder and psychological suspense. The readers of crime fiction will definitely enjoy this novel.
The Girl in Chains: She is safer in chains. Are you?
by Devashish Sardana
The Girl in Chains is the fifth book written by Devashish Sardana. It is an intense thriller along with a strong female leading character. The story starts with a girl who kills a prominent cabinet minister in a rally and then shoots herself in the middle of her forehead with the same gun. Every one cites terrorism, while some thinks that a suicide bomber is at play. But in reality it was a proper planned murder formulated with manipulation, power and greed.
The main character of the novel is CBI officer Simone Singh who is investigating the matter along with her partner Lucas. In her personal life she is facing different issues, her mother illness, her traumatic childhood etc. As they start unraveling the mystery behind the murder of cabinet minister three more ministers are killed in a similar way. With the last murder circumstances drastically changed and Simone's world come crashing over her again.
The mystery surrounding the the murder of ministers is kept in suspense throughout the story. As strings are pulled to reveal the truth, the witnesses are eliminated before they are found. It is an exiting thriller with a strong female character and an unpredictable plot. It explores themes such as control, manipulation, grief, corruption and deception. In the end I felt that this story is going to continue in the upcoming series.
The numerous plot twists combined with the presence of the name 'Daayan' keeps the readers engaged all the while. The writing style is fast paced which makes us hard to withdraw from the book. It contains a vivid image of Delhi which adds more depth to the narration.
It is an interesting compilation of crime, mystery, murder and psychological suspense. The readers of crime fiction will definitely enjoy this novel.
July 8, 2026
Every thriller asks you to follow the evidence. The Girl in Chains quietly asks something else, what if the evidence is only the aftermath, and the real story began long before the first shot was fired?
That shift in perspective is what, for me, sets this novel apart. The assassination of a cabinet minister gives the story its urgency, but Devashish Sardana never allows the investigation to remain confined to the crime itself. Each revelation pushes Simone Singh further into a world where influence is rarely obvious and truth is never a single discovery waiting at the end of a trail. Instead, it arrives in fragments, asking both the investigator and the reader to reconsider what they thought they understood.
I found myself returning to the title more often than the murder. To me, the "chains" came to represent far more than captivity. They became a metaphor for the invisible forces that shape people, fear, misplaced trust, emotional vulnerability and the narratives they are persuaded to believe. By the time that idea settled in, the title no longer felt symbolic; it felt inevitable.
One of the novel's strengths lies in Simone Singh herself. Her investigation is never detached from her personal life, and that emotional undercurrent gives the story a depth that extends beyond solving a case. She observes, questions and occasionally falters, making her feel like a participant in the mystery rather than someone merely assembling its pieces.
For all its intrigue and conspiracy, The Girl in Chains left me thinking about something much quieter, how easily certainty can be manufactured, and how dangerous it is when people stop questioning the stories they inherit.
For me, the novel wasn't ultimately about discovering who pulled the trigger.
It was about understanding who first placed the strings.
That shift in perspective is what, for me, sets this novel apart. The assassination of a cabinet minister gives the story its urgency, but Devashish Sardana never allows the investigation to remain confined to the crime itself. Each revelation pushes Simone Singh further into a world where influence is rarely obvious and truth is never a single discovery waiting at the end of a trail. Instead, it arrives in fragments, asking both the investigator and the reader to reconsider what they thought they understood.
I found myself returning to the title more often than the murder. To me, the "chains" came to represent far more than captivity. They became a metaphor for the invisible forces that shape people, fear, misplaced trust, emotional vulnerability and the narratives they are persuaded to believe. By the time that idea settled in, the title no longer felt symbolic; it felt inevitable.
One of the novel's strengths lies in Simone Singh herself. Her investigation is never detached from her personal life, and that emotional undercurrent gives the story a depth that extends beyond solving a case. She observes, questions and occasionally falters, making her feel like a participant in the mystery rather than someone merely assembling its pieces.
For all its intrigue and conspiracy, The Girl in Chains left me thinking about something much quieter, how easily certainty can be manufactured, and how dangerous it is when people stop questioning the stories they inherit.
For me, the novel wasn't ultimately about discovering who pulled the trigger.
It was about understanding who first placed the strings.
June 10, 2026
"Kill the target. Kill the evidence. Kill yourself."
I usually reach for slower, character-driven stories, but this book completely took me by surprise. What I thought would be a straightforward crime thriller turned into an addictive, twist-filled mystery that I ended up finishing in a single day.
What hooked me most was the investigation itself. After the shocking opening murder, three more killings follow the exact same pattern—same sequence of events, same clues, and the same feeling that someone unseen is pulling all the strings. Every time Simone and her team seemed close to an answer, the mystery only grew bigger. I loved trying to connect the dots alongside them, only to realize I was completely wrong.
The psychological aspect of the story was especially intriguing. The idea that ordinary people could be turned into pawns in a much larger game added a chilling layer to the investigation. The mysterious presence of Daayan looms over the entire story, making it impossible to predict where things are heading.
Alongside the investigation, Simone is dealing with her dying mother, unresolved grief, and secrets within her own circle, making the stakes feel deeply personal. Zoya's support during the investigation was another highlight, and I really enjoyed her dynamic with Simone throughout the story.
The short chapters and constant twists make this a genuine page-turner, and I found myself saying "just one more chapter" far too many times. While a few side characters could have been developed further, the suspense and unpredictability easily made up for it.
If you're looking for a fast-paced thriller packed with conspiracies, psychological intrigue, and twists that keep you guessing until the very end, this book is well worth picking up.
I usually reach for slower, character-driven stories, but this book completely took me by surprise. What I thought would be a straightforward crime thriller turned into an addictive, twist-filled mystery that I ended up finishing in a single day.
What hooked me most was the investigation itself. After the shocking opening murder, three more killings follow the exact same pattern—same sequence of events, same clues, and the same feeling that someone unseen is pulling all the strings. Every time Simone and her team seemed close to an answer, the mystery only grew bigger. I loved trying to connect the dots alongside them, only to realize I was completely wrong.
The psychological aspect of the story was especially intriguing. The idea that ordinary people could be turned into pawns in a much larger game added a chilling layer to the investigation. The mysterious presence of Daayan looms over the entire story, making it impossible to predict where things are heading.
Alongside the investigation, Simone is dealing with her dying mother, unresolved grief, and secrets within her own circle, making the stakes feel deeply personal. Zoya's support during the investigation was another highlight, and I really enjoyed her dynamic with Simone throughout the story.
The short chapters and constant twists make this a genuine page-turner, and I found myself saying "just one more chapter" far too many times. While a few side characters could have been developed further, the suspense and unpredictability easily made up for it.
If you're looking for a fast-paced thriller packed with conspiracies, psychological intrigue, and twists that keep you guessing until the very end, this book is well worth picking up.
August 13, 2026
The Girl in Chains had me hooked pretty much from the beginning. It’s dark, gritty and full of twists, with the kind of story that keeps making you wonder who you can actually trust.
The story begins with a young woman shooting a cabinet minister and then turning the gun on herself. That alone would make for an interesting case, but things get much more complicated as the investigation moves forward. Soon, more ministers are killed in a similar way, with the assassins shooting themselves after carrying out the murders. There are secrets, hidden connections and conspiracies slowly coming to light, and I genuinely enjoyed trying to piece everything together.
Simone Singh was probably my favourite part of the book. She’s strong but far from perfect, and I liked that she felt like an actual person rather than just another typical detective character. Her personal struggles also added quite a bit of emotion to the story. I also liked how Delhi was woven into the setting. It gave the whole story a very tense and gritty feel.
The twists were another highlight for me. A few times, I thought I had figured out where the story was going, only for it to take a completely different turn. The conspiracy, the moral grey areas and the constant question of who was really behind everything kept me interested.
But beyond the crime and suspense, there’s also a lot of grief, betrayal and some pretty difficult choices at the heart of the story. That emotional side made the book more than just another murder mystery for me.
Overall, The Girl in Chains was a gripping, dark and surprisingly emotional thriller. It kept me guessing till the end, and Daayan is definitely a character I won’t forget anytime soon.
The story begins with a young woman shooting a cabinet minister and then turning the gun on herself. That alone would make for an interesting case, but things get much more complicated as the investigation moves forward. Soon, more ministers are killed in a similar way, with the assassins shooting themselves after carrying out the murders. There are secrets, hidden connections and conspiracies slowly coming to light, and I genuinely enjoyed trying to piece everything together.
Simone Singh was probably my favourite part of the book. She’s strong but far from perfect, and I liked that she felt like an actual person rather than just another typical detective character. Her personal struggles also added quite a bit of emotion to the story. I also liked how Delhi was woven into the setting. It gave the whole story a very tense and gritty feel.
The twists were another highlight for me. A few times, I thought I had figured out where the story was going, only for it to take a completely different turn. The conspiracy, the moral grey areas and the constant question of who was really behind everything kept me interested.
But beyond the crime and suspense, there’s also a lot of grief, betrayal and some pretty difficult choices at the heart of the story. That emotional side made the book more than just another murder mystery for me.
Overall, The Girl in Chains was a gripping, dark and surprisingly emotional thriller. It kept me guessing till the end, and Daayan is definitely a character I won’t forget anytime soon.
June 11, 2026
”Simone grips the wheel, feeling the weight of two lives, two responsibilities on her shoulders: the mother she's just rescued, fragile and unfamiliar, and the conspirators behind the assassination of the Deputy CM, dark and sinister.”
- Devashish Sardana, The Girl in Chains
Simone Singh is still reeling from a previous case which was dubbed by the media as - ’The girl with broken dreams ’ where she had doubts on Dia. In a sudden twist of fate, Dia wants Singh to head her father's assassination case. While Simone is nursing her own demons — with her mother getting bail after 25 years. Then there's Daayan who ordered Naina to fire at Dia's father. Meanwhile she's also mourning her mother, who passed away due to cancer.
”The memories feel as if they belong to someone else-hours spent ironing her sheets, bathing her, soothing her tantrums.”
Who's Daayan? and Will Simone and her team get to the bottom of this?
Sardana excels in writing lyrically as well as gaining the readers attention towards the story as it progresses. The scenes are vivid and memorable. The book is written in multiple POVs so that it gives an additional layer of depth to the narrative. The characters are sketched deeply and meticulous describing every detail right from their fabric of existence. You can feel Simone walking near you who is carefully treading in her boots. Singh's POV reveals a lot about system and internal politics in bureaucracy. Sardana succeeds in peeling the skin of his protagonists to get into their psyche.
Overall, a gripping thriller with pure atmospheric vibes. Not only it's a blend of different genres, the visceral quality lingers beyond the page.
- Devashish Sardana, The Girl in Chains
Simone Singh is still reeling from a previous case which was dubbed by the media as - ’The girl with broken dreams ’ where she had doubts on Dia. In a sudden twist of fate, Dia wants Singh to head her father's assassination case. While Simone is nursing her own demons — with her mother getting bail after 25 years. Then there's Daayan who ordered Naina to fire at Dia's father. Meanwhile she's also mourning her mother, who passed away due to cancer.
”The memories feel as if they belong to someone else-hours spent ironing her sheets, bathing her, soothing her tantrums.”
Who's Daayan? and Will Simone and her team get to the bottom of this?
Sardana excels in writing lyrically as well as gaining the readers attention towards the story as it progresses. The scenes are vivid and memorable. The book is written in multiple POVs so that it gives an additional layer of depth to the narrative. The characters are sketched deeply and meticulous describing every detail right from their fabric of existence. You can feel Simone walking near you who is carefully treading in her boots. Singh's POV reveals a lot about system and internal politics in bureaucracy. Sardana succeeds in peeling the skin of his protagonists to get into their psyche.
Overall, a gripping thriller with pure atmospheric vibes. Not only it's a blend of different genres, the visceral quality lingers beyond the page.
June 4, 2026
If you like fast paced, gripping, atmospheric thriller that unfolded a serial killer mystery story, yes this is your sign to pick up this.
It's an immensely package of suspense, mystery and intriguing drama that evolves around Simone and Lucas, specially appointed for the case.
I have heard a lot about this author's previous books, read a lot of praises now I know why, electrifying narration style, each chapter left you with a new mystery and nail biting situation.
While nursing her dying mother and fending off shadows from her past, Simone is hurled into the most personal case of her life. The assassin left behind no motive, no trail―just a single whispered name: Daayan.
Worse, Simone’s own partner, Inspector Lucas, is hiding a secret that could destroy everything they’ve built.
As the body count rises and Delhi spirals into chaos, Simone must uncover a conspiracy woven through power and silence. But in a game where everyone is a pawn, exposing the truth might be the very thing that finally breaks her.
With a pulse-pounding story telling this book shifted you to another world where everything is hidden in darkness, every character has a mysterious history that is buried in the past.
Only one thing that I didn't like is frustratingly stupidity. It's an investigation thriller and the first thing they said that starts the investigation is an utterly, stupid thing, and every new character who was assigned to the case did the same stupidity.
But still it's a really good atmospheric thriller, unputdownable book.
Worth reading. Go ahead.
It's an immensely package of suspense, mystery and intriguing drama that evolves around Simone and Lucas, specially appointed for the case.
I have heard a lot about this author's previous books, read a lot of praises now I know why, electrifying narration style, each chapter left you with a new mystery and nail biting situation.
While nursing her dying mother and fending off shadows from her past, Simone is hurled into the most personal case of her life. The assassin left behind no motive, no trail―just a single whispered name: Daayan.
Worse, Simone’s own partner, Inspector Lucas, is hiding a secret that could destroy everything they’ve built.
As the body count rises and Delhi spirals into chaos, Simone must uncover a conspiracy woven through power and silence. But in a game where everyone is a pawn, exposing the truth might be the very thing that finally breaks her.
With a pulse-pounding story telling this book shifted you to another world where everything is hidden in darkness, every character has a mysterious history that is buried in the past.
Only one thing that I didn't like is frustratingly stupidity. It's an investigation thriller and the first thing they said that starts the investigation is an utterly, stupid thing, and every new character who was assigned to the case did the same stupidity.
But still it's a really good atmospheric thriller, unputdownable book.
Worth reading. Go ahead.
June 16, 2026
Devashish Sardana’s The Girl in Chains is a taut psychological crime thriller in the Simone Singh series, blending political intrigue, personal grief, and chilling conspiracies into a fast-paced narrative. It’s a gripping read for fans of Gillian Flynn–style thrillers.
At a packed rally in Delhi, a young woman executes a cabinet minister with a perfect headshot, then turns the gun on herself.
The media labels it terrorism; the public whispers suicide.
CBI officer Simone Singh suspects a deeper conspiracy, unraveling a trail linked to the whispered name Daayan.
Simone must balance her dying mother’s care, her own past traumas, and a partner hiding dangerous secrets.
As Delhi spirals into chaos, Simone races against time to expose a web of power, silence, and manipulation.
Explores grief, manipulation, and the fragility of trust.
A thriller rooted in contemporary Indian socio-political settings.
Builds on Simone Singh’s character arc from earlier novels
Sardana’s hallmark like unexpected turns and morally complex dilemmas.
Keeps readers hooked with relentless tension.
Simone Singh is layered, resilient, and relatable.
Indian backdrop adds authenticity and relatability.
Themes of family, grief, and betrayal elevate the thriller beyond action.
The Girl in Chains is a high-stakes, emotionally charged thriller that cements Devashish Sardana’s reputation as one of India’s sharpest crime fiction voices. It’s best suited for readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with political undertones, and for fans of authors like Gillian Flynn or Shari Lapena.
June 16, 2026
The Girl in Chains is my first book by Devashish Sardana, and I was genuinely excited to dive into it. As a thriller lover, this one immediately caught my attention with its gripping premise and the promise of a dark psychological mystery. What made the experience even more fun was the special package that came with the book. Along with the novel, there were clues to explore and a tote bag featuring the phrase "My Favourite Daayan," which is such a cool touch for thriller fans. You can spot some of these goodies in the photo as well.
The story kicks off with a shocking assassination at a political rally, setting the stage for what looks like a fast paced and layered investigation. Following CBI officer Simone Singh as she uncovers a larger conspiracy sounds incredibly compelling, especially with the mix of crime, politics, and personal struggles. From everything I have heard, the writing is atmospheric and immersive, with plenty of twists that keep readers guessing until the very end.
Thrillers have always been one of my favourite genres because they pull me into a world where every clue matters and every page reveals something unexpected. I love stories that challenge my assumptions and keep me trying to solve the mystery before the characters do. The Girl in Chains seems to offer exactly that, while also exploring deeper themes of grief, trust, and manipulation.
The story kicks off with a shocking assassination at a political rally, setting the stage for what looks like a fast paced and layered investigation. Following CBI officer Simone Singh as she uncovers a larger conspiracy sounds incredibly compelling, especially with the mix of crime, politics, and personal struggles. From everything I have heard, the writing is atmospheric and immersive, with plenty of twists that keep readers guessing until the very end.
Thrillers have always been one of my favourite genres because they pull me into a world where every clue matters and every page reveals something unexpected. I love stories that challenge my assumptions and keep me trying to solve the mystery before the characters do. The Girl in Chains seems to offer exactly that, while also exploring deeper themes of grief, trust, and manipulation.
July 14, 2026
The Girl in Chains promises the kind of thriller that grabs your attention from the very first page and refuses to let go. The premise alone—a seemingly ordinary young woman assassinating a cabinet minister before taking her own life—sets the stage for a fast-paced mystery filled with secrets, conspiracies, and psychological intrigue.
From what the story suggests, this isn't just another crime novel. It blends investigative suspense with emotional stakes as CBI officer Simone Singh navigates both a complex case and her personal struggles. The repeated pattern of unexplained killings, the cryptic mention of "Daayan," and the unsettling idea of ordinary people becoming unwilling pawns create an atmosphere that feels both eerie and unpredictable.
One aspect that stands out is the storytelling style. With short chapters and accessible writing, the narrative appears to maintain a relentless pace, making it difficult to put down. The psychological angle adds another layer of tension, encouraging readers to question every clue and suspect every character.
If you enjoy crime thrillers that mix conspiracy, emotional conflict, and unexpected twists, The Girl in Chains seems like a compelling choice. It appears to deliver an engaging mystery that keeps readers guessing until the very end, making it an exciting pick for fans of fast-moving, suspense-driven fiction.
From what the story suggests, this isn't just another crime novel. It blends investigative suspense with emotional stakes as CBI officer Simone Singh navigates both a complex case and her personal struggles. The repeated pattern of unexplained killings, the cryptic mention of "Daayan," and the unsettling idea of ordinary people becoming unwilling pawns create an atmosphere that feels both eerie and unpredictable.
One aspect that stands out is the storytelling style. With short chapters and accessible writing, the narrative appears to maintain a relentless pace, making it difficult to put down. The psychological angle adds another layer of tension, encouraging readers to question every clue and suspect every character.
If you enjoy crime thrillers that mix conspiracy, emotional conflict, and unexpected twists, The Girl in Chains seems like a compelling choice. It appears to deliver an engaging mystery that keeps readers guessing until the very end, making it an exciting pick for fans of fast-moving, suspense-driven fiction.
July 31, 2026
The Girl in Chains by Devashish Sardana is a gripping thriller that reminded me why I love this genre. The book invites readers to solve the mystery alongside the characters. I didn't expect to finish this book in a single sitting.
The story pulls in the reader without wasting any time, and every chapter leaves you wanting to read more and learn more about the antagonist. I turned into an investigator while reading this book, which enhanced my personal reading experience. The journey to the final reveal remained incredibly satisfying. The author does a wonderful job of writing women who are both strong and believable, giving them equal importance in a story driven by suspense and mystery.
I loved the writing style of the book as the language was simple and accessible, and this made the story easy to follow. I loved how each character was appreciated and had a purpose, making the story seamless. I was highlighting lines and making mental notes, questioning everything.
Without giving away any spoilers, I'd highly recommend The Girl in Chains to anyone who enjoys fast-paced crime fiction, psychological suspense, and stories that encourage readers to think alongside the detectives. If you're looking for an addictive thriller that's easy to read but difficult to put down, this one is definitely worth picking up.
The story pulls in the reader without wasting any time, and every chapter leaves you wanting to read more and learn more about the antagonist. I turned into an investigator while reading this book, which enhanced my personal reading experience. The journey to the final reveal remained incredibly satisfying. The author does a wonderful job of writing women who are both strong and believable, giving them equal importance in a story driven by suspense and mystery.
I loved the writing style of the book as the language was simple and accessible, and this made the story easy to follow. I loved how each character was appreciated and had a purpose, making the story seamless. I was highlighting lines and making mental notes, questioning everything.
Without giving away any spoilers, I'd highly recommend The Girl in Chains to anyone who enjoys fast-paced crime fiction, psychological suspense, and stories that encourage readers to think alongside the detectives. If you're looking for an addictive thriller that's easy to read but difficult to put down, this one is definitely worth picking up.
June 30, 2026
The Girl in Chains by Devashish Sardana starts as a shocking crime investigation and slowly unfolds into a psychological thriller that explores manipulation, trauma, and the invisible chains that can control a person's mind.
The mystery kept me engaged from the very beginning, and with every chapter, new revelations made it difficult to put the book down. The pacing is crisp, the twists are well-timed, and the emotional depth adds another layer to the story. Simone Singh once again proves to be a compelling protagonist strong yet vulnerable, determined yet deeply human.
What I appreciated most was that the book isn't just about solving a crime. It also makes you think about power, fear, and how people can be controlled in ways that aren't always visible. The blend of psychological tension and investigative drama creates a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.
If you enjoy crime thrillers with strong characters, unexpected twists, and a psychological edge, The Girl in Chains is a book worth picking up.
The mystery kept me engaged from the very beginning, and with every chapter, new revelations made it difficult to put the book down. The pacing is crisp, the twists are well-timed, and the emotional depth adds another layer to the story. Simone Singh once again proves to be a compelling protagonist strong yet vulnerable, determined yet deeply human.
What I appreciated most was that the book isn't just about solving a crime. It also makes you think about power, fear, and how people can be controlled in ways that aren't always visible. The blend of psychological tension and investigative drama creates a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.
If you enjoy crime thrillers with strong characters, unexpected twists, and a psychological edge, The Girl in Chains is a book worth picking up.
June 9, 2026
"But it's her eyes that stop him. Wide. Unfocused. Fear swimming beneath the surface."
I'm a fan of the author Devashish's books. Ever since I read 'The Girl in the Glass Case,' I was blown away. I have recommended it to n number of people. This book was no less.
The story follows the path of a serial killer, and is extremely good-paced. If you've read the authors books earlier, you would be familiar with Simone. While still in the clouds of her previous case 'The Girl with Broken Dreams', she battles her own issues and takes up with this case. The worst part - her partner, inspector Lucas is hiding a secret from her.
As the investigation proceeds, the case gets more complicated with more questions than answers. The plot keeps getting intense as you keep reading. The writing was impeccable, and I recommend this to all fans of psychological thrillers, especially those involving crime.
I'm a fan of the author Devashish's books. Ever since I read 'The Girl in the Glass Case,' I was blown away. I have recommended it to n number of people. This book was no less.
The story follows the path of a serial killer, and is extremely good-paced. If you've read the authors books earlier, you would be familiar with Simone. While still in the clouds of her previous case 'The Girl with Broken Dreams', she battles her own issues and takes up with this case. The worst part - her partner, inspector Lucas is hiding a secret from her.
As the investigation proceeds, the case gets more complicated with more questions than answers. The plot keeps getting intense as you keep reading. The writing was impeccable, and I recommend this to all fans of psychological thrillers, especially those involving crime.
July 18, 2026
Imagine witnessing a woman assassinate a cabinet minister in broad daylight.. and then immediately turn the gun on herself. That's the plot of The Girl in Chains. CBI officer Simone Singh refuses to believe the obvious explanation. She follows a trail of unanswered questions, hidden agendas and a mysterious name Daayan, whispered by the assassin. She finds herself caught in a conspiracy where every answer only leads to a bigger mystery, while battling her own demons.
I'm a fan of the Simone Singh thrillers. Having read the previous book, The Girl in Glass Case, I sensed that a greater banger is coming. This book naturally kept me hooked. Every chapter left me curious about what comes next. The reading experience was even more satisfying this time. It's a pageturner, trust me! An enjoyable crime thriller that's packed with conspiracies, psychological tension and unpredictable twists. It's incredibly difficult to put down.
I'm a fan of the Simone Singh thrillers. Having read the previous book, The Girl in Glass Case, I sensed that a greater banger is coming. This book naturally kept me hooked. Every chapter left me curious about what comes next. The reading experience was even more satisfying this time. It's a pageturner, trust me! An enjoyable crime thriller that's packed with conspiracies, psychological tension and unpredictable twists. It's incredibly difficult to put down.
June 10, 2026
Oh my gosh, Devashish Sardana has done it again! This book is an absolute rollercoaster that kept me hooked from the very first page.
The story kicks off with a shocking public assassination at a political rally. A girl shoots a minister and then immediately turns the gun on herself. It looks like an open and shut case, but CBI officer Simone Singh suspects a much deeper conspiracy. She dives into a dark web of secrets while dealing with her own messy personal life.
The pacing is insanely fast and the twists genuinely shocked me. If you love gritty psychological thrillers, you need to add this to your TBR list immediately!
The story kicks off with a shocking public assassination at a political rally. A girl shoots a minister and then immediately turns the gun on herself. It looks like an open and shut case, but CBI officer Simone Singh suspects a much deeper conspiracy. She dives into a dark web of secrets while dealing with her own messy personal life.
The pacing is insanely fast and the twists genuinely shocked me. If you love gritty psychological thrillers, you need to add this to your TBR list immediately!
June 17, 2026
The Girl in Chains by Devashish Sardana is a gripping thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end. With shocking twists, high-stakes investigations, and an emotionally layered protagonist, this book delivers both suspense and heart. Simone Singh's determination, despite her personal struggles, makes her a compelling character to root for. Dark, fast-paced, and packed with conspiracy and secrets, this is a must-read for fans of intense crime thriller
"When the truth is buried beneath power and silence, uncovering it comes at a price." 🔗🖤📖
"When the truth is buried beneath power and silence, uncovering it comes at a price." 🔗🖤📖
August 9, 2026
I’m personally not a huge fan of Indian authors. Why? Jargons…!!
But The Girl in Chains by Devashish Sardana had me completely hooked. I was following the story like I was the investigating officer myself — basically Simone Singh with a mission. 😂
I started reading and when I finally put the book down, I had somehow finished it in one swoop.
This is one hell of a crime thriller. The kind that grabs you, keeps you guessing and refuses to let you put it down.
Definitely a thrilling read! 🔥
But The Girl in Chains by Devashish Sardana had me completely hooked. I was following the story like I was the investigating officer myself — basically Simone Singh with a mission. 😂
I started reading and when I finally put the book down, I had somehow finished it in one swoop.
This is one hell of a crime thriller. The kind that grabs you, keeps you guessing and refuses to let you put it down.
Definitely a thrilling read! 🔥
July 16, 2026
of course, I expected a great thriller by the author as I’ve been following him since his first book, and technically this book was more with the second book. That was the girl with broken dreams, and the narrative line was very great. I was almost in middle of the book, convince that the book is not that great, and I have figured out the killer, but it jump to another thing and then jump to another thing. Agree read, and I love reading it.
July 5, 2026
Very fast paced
Feels like a cross between robin cook and Robert ludlum
Feels like a cross between robin cook and Robert ludlum
June 30, 2026
THE GIRL IN CHAINS - DEVASHISH SARDANA
The Agenda is simple..
Kill the Target
Kill Yourself!
The Girl in Chains by author Devashish Sardana is a fast paced gripping physiological thriller which you can't read fast enough!
There is a serial killer drama, a sense of wonder as to how the murders happen and being a doctor I loved the medical part in the story ( something to think about).
I guarantee that like me even you will keep turning the pages to find out How? Who? Is ultimately responsible!
The female police inspector in the book Simone Singh . I can't wait to see what's up next for her!!
The Agenda is simple..
Kill the Target
Kill Yourself!
The Girl in Chains by author Devashish Sardana is a fast paced gripping physiological thriller which you can't read fast enough!
There is a serial killer drama, a sense of wonder as to how the murders happen and being a doctor I loved the medical part in the story ( something to think about).
I guarantee that like me even you will keep turning the pages to find out How? Who? Is ultimately responsible!
The female police inspector in the book Simone Singh . I can't wait to see what's up next for her!!
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