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Predators and Prey
A data theft at the NSA. An Indian scientist on the run. The spy apparatus of three nations after him and the coveted secrets he intends to take to the highest authorities. A girl who has become an unwitting pawn in this deadly game. A mastermind who will stop at nothing. They are up against a man with a troubled past who stands between life and death, victory and defeat. A conspiracy so devious it could forever change the nation. A race against impossible odds and time. Who will get their hands on the secret first? About the Author Abhinav is a columnist, photographer, software professional, Hindi music addict, reader and reviewer, and curator of the Indic Book Club. Abhinav’s writings have been published in DNA, Pioneer, Swarajya, LinkedIn, OpIndia, Medium, and elsewhere. He has worked at technology companies in India, the United States, and Canada. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from Mumbai University and is a post-graduate from the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore. He lives in Bangalore with his wife and two daughters.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2020
19 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 11, 2020
Video Review Link - https://www.youtube.com/embed/WyyvOzI...
I saw the cover of "Predators and Prey" on the social post shared by Vineet Bajpai. The cover intrigued me and I decided to explore more. I saw the blurb and whatever few reviews that I can find on the net. The blurb and reviews were fascinating enough for me to go for this book. I didn't waste time when I received the copy. Good news for those who have Kindle unlimited account, the book is available on Kindle Unlimited. They should try (or I would say they must try) this book.
"Predators and prey" covers a multi-genre story. The main characters of the stories were Riya, Venkat, and Deva. Venkat was an NSA guy who you took out some data from NSA and fled to India. He knew what are the severities of his misdeeds, so he contacted his old college friend Riya who was working with a media giant company held by Neeraj. Now from there, started multiple twists. In the USA, NSA guys came to know about Venkat's data theft they wanted to take him out at any cost. The data that Venkat had contained the information that can bring the whole Indian subcontinent down. Neeraj wanted this data badly and so was Pakistan and China. Rathore the national security advisor got wind of this information and sent the Deva for the mission to secure data, Venkat and Riya. And from there starts a powerful mix of action, thriller, and suspense. Read the book to know more.
I am glad that I selected this book. This is the first time I have read such a wonderful woven and thoroughly thought of book by any Indian author. In the current digital age, what are the different ways through which government agencies or terrorist can gather information about different people different countries or different geographies is shown in the book? It is very difficult to run away from the system when mobiles, cameras, CCTVs, audio systems or even smart TVs are present at every nook and corner of the country. Read the book to know how they have survived. I would like to appreciate the efforts of the author to conceptualize this story. I may be exaggerating but such cases might be happening in and around the world about which we are not aware of.
I would like to give 5 out of 5 to this book. And say this is a must-read of this year.
Detailed Review Link - https://chevusread.blogspot.com/2020/...
I saw the cover of "Predators and Prey" on the social post shared by Vineet Bajpai. The cover intrigued me and I decided to explore more. I saw the blurb and whatever few reviews that I can find on the net. The blurb and reviews were fascinating enough for me to go for this book. I didn't waste time when I received the copy. Good news for those who have Kindle unlimited account, the book is available on Kindle Unlimited. They should try (or I would say they must try) this book.
"Predators and prey" covers a multi-genre story. The main characters of the stories were Riya, Venkat, and Deva. Venkat was an NSA guy who you took out some data from NSA and fled to India. He knew what are the severities of his misdeeds, so he contacted his old college friend Riya who was working with a media giant company held by Neeraj. Now from there, started multiple twists. In the USA, NSA guys came to know about Venkat's data theft they wanted to take him out at any cost. The data that Venkat had contained the information that can bring the whole Indian subcontinent down. Neeraj wanted this data badly and so was Pakistan and China. Rathore the national security advisor got wind of this information and sent the Deva for the mission to secure data, Venkat and Riya. And from there starts a powerful mix of action, thriller, and suspense. Read the book to know more.
I am glad that I selected this book. This is the first time I have read such a wonderful woven and thoroughly thought of book by any Indian author. In the current digital age, what are the different ways through which government agencies or terrorist can gather information about different people different countries or different geographies is shown in the book? It is very difficult to run away from the system when mobiles, cameras, CCTVs, audio systems or even smart TVs are present at every nook and corner of the country. Read the book to know how they have survived. I would like to appreciate the efforts of the author to conceptualize this story. I may be exaggerating but such cases might be happening in and around the world about which we are not aware of.
I would like to give 5 out of 5 to this book. And say this is a must-read of this year.
Detailed Review Link - https://chevusread.blogspot.com/2020/...
July 28, 2020
A gripping thriller by Abhinav Agarwal , that involves crime , governments , media, love and love for the nation.
March 20, 2020
Scary read on how your phone can spy on you
Whether it is the sensors or cloud a lot of data cam be captured and this book explains how. Must read for those concerned about.digital trail
Whether it is the sensors or cloud a lot of data cam be captured and this book explains how. Must read for those concerned about.digital trail
March 14, 2020
Predators and Prey is a well-executed action-thriller with all the usual elements - a tense plot, a formidable hero, nasty villains and energetic action sequences but minus the steamy love story. The whole reading experience was suggestive of watching Tv series "24" and playing the video game "Splinter Cell"
An Indo American pulls a Snowden on NSA and arrives in India to get away from. The onus falls on the hero to save him from the syndicate of ISI, NSA, MSS and a Media Mogul. The hero of the story, Devavratta, is driven with a desire to make a difference. The supporting characters also are developed splendidly and utilized with equivalent splendour in the story.
The story is methodically arranged and well-plotted underneath the astounding facet. There is undoubtedly a lot of intensity in the plot and you need to keep turning the pages to see where everything closes. The rhythm and continuity are sustained with added doses of humour. The chapters are brief and fractioned well. There are no pointless elements or diversions from the plot. The author has taken care of details be it a Dhaba or a Farmhouse.
The important thing is that the novel does not feel some rip off of Ian flaming or Robert Ludlum novel. It is entirely Desi with sprinkles of the dharmic brand of wisdom from Vedas, Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita. The language is a fascinating combination of uncomplicated words and chasmic thoughts.
Predators and Prey is a entrancing read, one that every reader in adoration with Action-Thrillers should read. It makes you comprehend that the storytelling itself is more critical than the ending.
An Indo American pulls a Snowden on NSA and arrives in India to get away from. The onus falls on the hero to save him from the syndicate of ISI, NSA, MSS and a Media Mogul. The hero of the story, Devavratta, is driven with a desire to make a difference. The supporting characters also are developed splendidly and utilized with equivalent splendour in the story.
The story is methodically arranged and well-plotted underneath the astounding facet. There is undoubtedly a lot of intensity in the plot and you need to keep turning the pages to see where everything closes. The rhythm and continuity are sustained with added doses of humour. The chapters are brief and fractioned well. There are no pointless elements or diversions from the plot. The author has taken care of details be it a Dhaba or a Farmhouse.
The important thing is that the novel does not feel some rip off of Ian flaming or Robert Ludlum novel. It is entirely Desi with sprinkles of the dharmic brand of wisdom from Vedas, Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita. The language is a fascinating combination of uncomplicated words and chasmic thoughts.
Predators and Prey is a entrancing read, one that every reader in adoration with Action-Thrillers should read. It makes you comprehend that the storytelling itself is more critical than the ending.
March 19, 2020
Straight forward
The power games being played behind the curtains in the corridors of political, diplomatic, bureaucratic corridors are laid bare in front of us.
The power games being played behind the curtains in the corridors of political, diplomatic, bureaucratic corridors are laid bare in front of us.
February 21, 2021
Predator and Prey is a must read book.
It provides a spinning tale of a data leak at NSA,America much like Snowden Saga.This story revolves around three main characters Dev, Riya and Venkat. These three with three different personas provide a lilting effect to the reading experience. Suspense and surprise, thrill and terror, agony and anticipation, love and hatred; this book has it all. Different shades but all in sync.
A person who finds it outrageous that a foreign nation has access to all the rights and wrongs of his Homeland and takes matters into his own hand; an ex-army man, a force to reckon with ; an unsuspecting young lady entangled in the biggest data leak ; security and intelligence agencies of three countries behind the trio. The disturbing pasts of the lead roles. The hurt of the heart but nation above and before all.
The nefarious designs of the traitors within colluding with the enemies beyond. The Lutyens of the Dilli darbar, their craze for power,money, stature and above all is the ambition to be on the top. The extent that nations go to keep track of each and everything using the digital devices that have become so engrained in us that we can't part with even for a little while. It makes us fearful of the breach of our privacy but brings us closer to the reality albeit increasing our skepticism toward these digital spies.
All in all, this book is a welcome read and an insight to the modern proxy war that countries like India has to deal with with many unsung, behind the curtain heroes who serve her unconditionally and provide a sense of security to the civilians within.
It provides a spinning tale of a data leak at NSA,America much like Snowden Saga.This story revolves around three main characters Dev, Riya and Venkat. These three with three different personas provide a lilting effect to the reading experience. Suspense and surprise, thrill and terror, agony and anticipation, love and hatred; this book has it all. Different shades but all in sync.
A person who finds it outrageous that a foreign nation has access to all the rights and wrongs of his Homeland and takes matters into his own hand; an ex-army man, a force to reckon with ; an unsuspecting young lady entangled in the biggest data leak ; security and intelligence agencies of three countries behind the trio. The disturbing pasts of the lead roles. The hurt of the heart but nation above and before all.
The nefarious designs of the traitors within colluding with the enemies beyond. The Lutyens of the Dilli darbar, their craze for power,money, stature and above all is the ambition to be on the top. The extent that nations go to keep track of each and everything using the digital devices that have become so engrained in us that we can't part with even for a little while. It makes us fearful of the breach of our privacy but brings us closer to the reality albeit increasing our skepticism toward these digital spies.
All in all, this book is a welcome read and an insight to the modern proxy war that countries like India has to deal with with many unsung, behind the curtain heroes who serve her unconditionally and provide a sense of security to the civilians within.
February 20, 2020
A true to life humdinger
A great contemporary story well told. A compulsive page turner. On oar with the best. Look forward to your next book, Aabha's closure. Take a bow.
A great contemporary story well told. A compulsive page turner. On oar with the best. Look forward to your next book, Aabha's closure. Take a bow.
April 12, 2020
Couldn't stop reading, finished overnight
This is a gripping read, kept me on the edge. I thought I'll read for a few minutes before sleeping, but couldn't stop reading and finished our overnight.
This is a gripping read, kept me on the edge. I thought I'll read for a few minutes before sleeping, but couldn't stop reading and finished our overnight.
March 10, 2022
This book is simply unputdownable....the story and the way it is narrated make for a compelling read. You are invested in the characters right from the get go.
The author weaves in digital presence, state spying, cross border terrorism, military intelligence...all intense topics, fleshed out with enough details to engage the reader without ever getting boring.
"Shaitan" the charismatic protagonist deserves a life beyond this book...maybe a film, a web series...most certainly to a book series.
Looking forward to more books from the author.
The author weaves in digital presence, state spying, cross border terrorism, military intelligence...all intense topics, fleshed out with enough details to engage the reader without ever getting boring.
"Shaitan" the charismatic protagonist deserves a life beyond this book...maybe a film, a web series...most certainly to a book series.
Looking forward to more books from the author.
June 7, 2020
Gripping, well narrated and keeps you on edge from start till end.
October 18, 2020
Predators and Prey by Mr.Abhinav Agarwal is a fast-paced story. The plot revolves around military and spy based backdrop.
A data thrift has happened at the NSA - National Security Agency, USA.Venkat is accused of it who has fled to India after this criminal act. What data has he got possession of? Neeraj is a tech scientist who gets involved in this along with Riya.
Countries like China and Pakistan are after this data which has the potential to spiral down the entire Indian subcontinent. What is it all about? What did Venkat find out ? Who is Deva sent by Rathor to procure it all? Now who becomes the predator and who is the prey ?
This thriller has the capability to keep you on the edge with its continuous arrival of twists. The action packed fiction also makes the read enthralling for its inclusion of events having similarity with real life incidents. Along with a descriptive background and depth in the characters, it also provides good insights into the flow of world politics . Here through the story we get a glimpse of developed digital — cyber technology, rivalry between nations, military aspects along with security and economical conspiracies hidden in the world .
This is a book for thriller lovers who like suspense, adrenaline rush and action !
A data thrift has happened at the NSA - National Security Agency, USA.Venkat is accused of it who has fled to India after this criminal act. What data has he got possession of? Neeraj is a tech scientist who gets involved in this along with Riya.
Countries like China and Pakistan are after this data which has the potential to spiral down the entire Indian subcontinent. What is it all about? What did Venkat find out ? Who is Deva sent by Rathor to procure it all? Now who becomes the predator and who is the prey ?
This thriller has the capability to keep you on the edge with its continuous arrival of twists. The action packed fiction also makes the read enthralling for its inclusion of events having similarity with real life incidents. Along with a descriptive background and depth in the characters, it also provides good insights into the flow of world politics . Here through the story we get a glimpse of developed digital — cyber technology, rivalry between nations, military aspects along with security and economical conspiracies hidden in the world .
This is a book for thriller lovers who like suspense, adrenaline rush and action !
May 5, 2020
The Indian thriller comes of age.
Devavrata Singh, aka Shaitan Singh is a hero who deserves a franchise.
Abhinav Agarwal’s debut novel, Predators and Prey, is a race thriller that tells the story of Devavrata who is charged with keeping alive a data scientist on the run, a journalist who is trying to break the story. They are on the run from a rather stung NSA – who wants them dead – the ISI, with two master puppeteers pulling the strings, and seeing their proxy war played out.
Agarwal gets both urgency and tightness. There is very little that is extra in the book. There is little indulgence in writing. He keeps the story moving between various actors, kees the tempo pumping, and has the little lull moments that give you insights into the characters.
While on the face of it, the story is about the scientist on the run, and the journalist – it really is about how Devavrata is planning to keep them alive.
I would really like to see Shaitan Singh on screen. It would possibly make a great vehicle for a 40 something male star, who is looking at an interesting role. The role is meaty, there is a possibility of a franchise, and it will be an easy watch.
Devavrata Singh, aka Shaitan Singh is a hero who deserves a franchise.
Abhinav Agarwal’s debut novel, Predators and Prey, is a race thriller that tells the story of Devavrata who is charged with keeping alive a data scientist on the run, a journalist who is trying to break the story. They are on the run from a rather stung NSA – who wants them dead – the ISI, with two master puppeteers pulling the strings, and seeing their proxy war played out.
Agarwal gets both urgency and tightness. There is very little that is extra in the book. There is little indulgence in writing. He keeps the story moving between various actors, kees the tempo pumping, and has the little lull moments that give you insights into the characters.
While on the face of it, the story is about the scientist on the run, and the journalist – it really is about how Devavrata is planning to keep them alive.
I would really like to see Shaitan Singh on screen. It would possibly make a great vehicle for a 40 something male star, who is looking at an interesting role. The role is meaty, there is a possibility of a franchise, and it will be an easy watch.
February 19, 2020
Its 3.5 star book for me.
I picked up this book with great hope as i follow the author on twitter and really like his views
about many things be it history, politics or Itihasa.
Book's storyline is quite good, sometimes its scary to know what technology can do, how it can intrude the privacy of our life not even the Prime Minister & its cabinet is immune to it. Characterisation is also great, I liked the character of Devavrata aka Shaitaan (i think its an ode to Bhisma Pitamah from Mahabharat). There are great thrills in the beginning but the punch required at the end was lacking, that's where I think it fell a bit short.
Overall its an amazing read, concept of Delhi Durbar is intriguing. Will definitely look forward to author's future works.
I picked up this book with great hope as i follow the author on twitter and really like his views
about many things be it history, politics or Itihasa.
Book's storyline is quite good, sometimes its scary to know what technology can do, how it can intrude the privacy of our life not even the Prime Minister & its cabinet is immune to it. Characterisation is also great, I liked the character of Devavrata aka Shaitaan (i think its an ode to Bhisma Pitamah from Mahabharat). There are great thrills in the beginning but the punch required at the end was lacking, that's where I think it fell a bit short.
Overall its an amazing read, concept of Delhi Durbar is intriguing. Will definitely look forward to author's future works.
March 15, 2021
#Predatorsandprey #AbhinavAgarwal I am an avid reader of thrillers since last 40 years. Mostly they used to come from western authors. This is one Indian thriller which stands tall among them. It has pace, thrill, intrigue, bravado, machismo all set in modern day Indian scenario. A page turner till the last. I urge the author to sign for a mini series on the OTT platform. It will be a mega hit. Good job.
June 16, 2020
A captivating military thriller story about manipulative king makers with greed for power, money, fame and mega deals without having much concern for their nation or human life and on the other side those who will do anything even give their life for protecting their Nation and human kind without anyone even knowing about it. Liked the book very much!
May 26, 2020
Plot is developed in a enigmatic manner which i liked,but sometimes you will feel it is too much exaggerated.also their is too much short passages. But overall it's a good work by the writer & he have done his research quite properly which is commendable.
January 16, 2021
First of all, a standing ovation to the author, Abhinav Agarwal.
This book is a must read option for the book lovers. Here are the reasons:
1. Writing:
I wanted to specially review the writing style of the author. If you are from North India, You will feel like you are inside the story, specially with dialogue styles closely matching with dialects of Delhi, UP etc. The character description is awesome. In the first half, There's a character you will hate with your guts. The writer has described the back story of the character in a way that, you will feel like, You just want to go there and kill him.
There's a character(protagonist) whose physical description is not provided but towards the middle of the story, you will already have the picture of him in your mind. You will feel him, want to know about him as you go forward. 4/5 for writing skills
2. Title:
Predators and Prey is the best title this book can have. "Devil aap ke peeche and aap devil ke peeche, Too much fun"
3. Story:
This book has a wonderful story. It is full of thrillers and you will really try to binge read it. It's like a thriller Bollywood movie. At the end of each chapter, you will want to read at least one more chapter.
But I would like to mention few points here about some characters whose stories are not explored much. These would have been some top class back story and would have made the book complete. After reading it, I had a feeling that its incomplete without those stories.
1. Major Rahul Kaul: Riya's story would have been more powerful if Rahul's story was also explored. But he was just mentioned twice or thrice. He looks like who has sacrificed his life for the country but how and why should have explored further.
2. JSR: Abhinav has mentioned couple of times that JSR is too powerful and people are afraid of him. But his back story is not mentioned anywhere. We will really like to know more about JSR in the next version if there is any.
3. Naveen and Dilli Durbar: I would have like to know more about the past deeds of this group and how they were controlling the narrative.
4. Also what happened to the media and court trials of the bomb blast planned by the trio? That's a big gap.
The only person whose back story was explored properly was Deva.
Story wise this is a typical Bollywood/Hollywood thrill. You will love it for sure. 3.5/5 for story.
I will really wait for Book 2 if there's any.
This book is a must read option for the book lovers. Here are the reasons:
1. Writing:
I wanted to specially review the writing style of the author. If you are from North India, You will feel like you are inside the story, specially with dialogue styles closely matching with dialects of Delhi, UP etc. The character description is awesome. In the first half, There's a character you will hate with your guts. The writer has described the back story of the character in a way that, you will feel like, You just want to go there and kill him.
There's a character(protagonist) whose physical description is not provided but towards the middle of the story, you will already have the picture of him in your mind. You will feel him, want to know about him as you go forward. 4/5 for writing skills
2. Title:
Predators and Prey is the best title this book can have. "Devil aap ke peeche and aap devil ke peeche, Too much fun"
3. Story:
This book has a wonderful story. It is full of thrillers and you will really try to binge read it. It's like a thriller Bollywood movie. At the end of each chapter, you will want to read at least one more chapter.
But I would like to mention few points here about some characters whose stories are not explored much. These would have been some top class back story and would have made the book complete. After reading it, I had a feeling that its incomplete without those stories.
1. Major Rahul Kaul: Riya's story would have been more powerful if Rahul's story was also explored. But he was just mentioned twice or thrice. He looks like who has sacrificed his life for the country but how and why should have explored further.
2. JSR: Abhinav has mentioned couple of times that JSR is too powerful and people are afraid of him. But his back story is not mentioned anywhere. We will really like to know more about JSR in the next version if there is any.
3. Naveen and Dilli Durbar: I would have like to know more about the past deeds of this group and how they were controlling the narrative.
4. Also what happened to the media and court trials of the bomb blast planned by the trio? That's a big gap.
The only person whose back story was explored properly was Deva.
Story wise this is a typical Bollywood/Hollywood thrill. You will love it for sure. 3.5/5 for story.
I will really wait for Book 2 if there's any.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2020
Predators and Prey by Mr.Abhinav Agarwal is a fast-paced story. The plot revolves around military and spy based backdrop.
A data thrift has happened at the NSA - National Security Agency, USA.Venkat is accused of it who has fled to India after this criminal act. What data has he got possession of? Neeraj is a tech scientist who gets involved in this along with Riya.
Countries like China and Pakistan are after this data which has the potential to spiral down the entire Indian subcontinent. What is it all about? What did Venkat find out ? Who is Deva sent by Rathor to procure it all? Now who becomes the predator and who is the prey ?
This thriller has the capability to keep you on the edge with its continuous arrival of twists. The action packed fiction also makes the read enthralling for its inclusion of events having similarity with real life incidents. Along with a descriptive background and depth in the characters, it also provides good insights into the flow of world politics . Here through the story we get a glimpse of developed digital — cyber technology, rivalry between nations, military aspects along with security and economical conspiracies hidden in the world .
This is a book for thriller lovers who like suspense, adrenaline rush and action !
A data thrift has happened at the NSA - National Security Agency, USA.Venkat is accused of it who has fled to India after this criminal act. What data has he got possession of? Neeraj is a tech scientist who gets involved in this along with Riya.
Countries like China and Pakistan are after this data which has the potential to spiral down the entire Indian subcontinent. What is it all about? What did Venkat find out ? Who is Deva sent by Rathor to procure it all? Now who becomes the predator and who is the prey ?
This thriller has the capability to keep you on the edge with its continuous arrival of twists. The action packed fiction also makes the read enthralling for its inclusion of events having similarity with real life incidents. Along with a descriptive background and depth in the characters, it also provides good insights into the flow of world politics . Here through the story we get a glimpse of developed digital — cyber technology, rivalry between nations, military aspects along with security and economical conspiracies hidden in the world .
This is a book for thriller lovers who like suspense, adrenaline rush and action !
July 1, 2025
Fantastic read.
To be honest, I had not expected the book to be this good. The story of this book is neither slow nor fast.
Perfectly paced it is. The suspence and thrill this book give is just awesome.
I just loved the character of Deva and JSR(though character of JSR comes often, i like the way he take real quick and risky dicisions)
Abhinav Agarwal has done fantastic job as an Indian writer. Expecting more actions of Deva the shaitan and thrills from Mr. Abhinav.
Good luck
To be honest, I had not expected the book to be this good. The story of this book is neither slow nor fast.
Perfectly paced it is. The suspence and thrill this book give is just awesome.
I just loved the character of Deva and JSR(though character of JSR comes often, i like the way he take real quick and risky dicisions)
Abhinav Agarwal has done fantastic job as an Indian writer. Expecting more actions of Deva the shaitan and thrills from Mr. Abhinav.
Good luck
August 12, 2021
an absolute thriller roller coaster of a Book , Whole book is taken out of like reality scenario , many characters have the resemblances to the people alive and working around us.
This book can be easily made into a series and will be super hit for sure in India.
This book can be easily made into a series and will be super hit for sure in India.
June 23, 2020
Brilliantly gripping thriller and a page-turner..!
May 24, 2020
Thriller to the core
A true thriller, you can't put the book down till the last page. It keeps you on the edge and does not linger on one subject, keeping the book quite pacy. A good read if you love this genre.
A true thriller, you can't put the book down till the last page. It keeps you on the edge and does not linger on one subject, keeping the book quite pacy. A good read if you love this genre.
May 11, 2021
Superb thriller
Abhinav Agarwal has dived into the world of digital surveillance, national security and political power broking and produced a pacy thriller.
Venkat, a scientist of Indian origin working for NSA in the US, finds out that his employer has been spying on India and steals the data to bring attention to this “dark den of digital dystopia”.
Once in Delhi he is chased by the US military, an India media tycoon, Chinese and Pakistani forces to get hold of the precious data which can be used to meddle in Indian politics and economy.
Riya Kaul, his former college friend and now data analyst tries to help him but they are no match for the forces stacked up against them. Two men stand between them and death –former army man Shaitan Deva and India’s national security advisor JSR.
Abhinav successfully holds the attention of the reader in the plot which is spread over two days. The actions scenes are graphic and well written. Needless to say the novel is perfect material for on-screen adaptation.
The parts on how digital surveillance takes place are truly scary. Welcome to the new trojan horse in all our lives – the mobile phone.
Deva is the quintessential hero - strong and at the same time vulnerable. The antagonists are also formidable. Neeraj’s character is a delight to read as he offers a glimpse into how the all-powerful Delhi Darbar operates. China MSS representative Ling and ISI’s Naeem leave a mark every time they appear.
The central female character Riya, widow of an Indian solider, highlights how common people suffer in a compromised system.
The novel ends with a promise of more action from Deva. Looking forward Abhinav.
Abhinav Agarwal has dived into the world of digital surveillance, national security and political power broking and produced a pacy thriller.
Venkat, a scientist of Indian origin working for NSA in the US, finds out that his employer has been spying on India and steals the data to bring attention to this “dark den of digital dystopia”.
Once in Delhi he is chased by the US military, an India media tycoon, Chinese and Pakistani forces to get hold of the precious data which can be used to meddle in Indian politics and economy.
Riya Kaul, his former college friend and now data analyst tries to help him but they are no match for the forces stacked up against them. Two men stand between them and death –former army man Shaitan Deva and India’s national security advisor JSR.
Abhinav successfully holds the attention of the reader in the plot which is spread over two days. The actions scenes are graphic and well written. Needless to say the novel is perfect material for on-screen adaptation.
The parts on how digital surveillance takes place are truly scary. Welcome to the new trojan horse in all our lives – the mobile phone.
Deva is the quintessential hero - strong and at the same time vulnerable. The antagonists are also formidable. Neeraj’s character is a delight to read as he offers a glimpse into how the all-powerful Delhi Darbar operates. China MSS representative Ling and ISI’s Naeem leave a mark every time they appear.
The central female character Riya, widow of an Indian solider, highlights how common people suffer in a compromised system.
The novel ends with a promise of more action from Deva. Looking forward Abhinav.
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April 22, 2021Predators and Prey by Abhinav Agarwal is a new experience. After reading many soft books, the young adult romance of the Chetan Bhagat and Durjoy Datta type and the mythological inspired books led by Amish Tripathi and Anand Neelakantan – Abhinav Agarwal comes as a new change.
No, there is nothing new in the book. It scores in trying to ride in top gear— there is no letting off- almost a multilevel multiplayer game of chess involving national security agencies. Everyone wants control of the encrypted disc with sensitive data on Indian celebrities, including politicians. Venkat is a scientist of Indian origin. He steals data from NSA-USA. His aim is to blow the lid on this regular snooping spying by the USA. He contacts his college friend Riya Kaul, a journalist – who tries setting up his meeting with Neeraj, the media giant. Unaware to them, they are now entering the dangerous world of wheeler-dealers, espionage agencies- ISI from Pakistan and China too in the Game.
for more https://sanjeevkotnala.com/predators-...
No, there is nothing new in the book. It scores in trying to ride in top gear— there is no letting off- almost a multilevel multiplayer game of chess involving national security agencies. Everyone wants control of the encrypted disc with sensitive data on Indian celebrities, including politicians. Venkat is a scientist of Indian origin. He steals data from NSA-USA. His aim is to blow the lid on this regular snooping spying by the USA. He contacts his college friend Riya Kaul, a journalist – who tries setting up his meeting with Neeraj, the media giant. Unaware to them, they are now entering the dangerous world of wheeler-dealers, espionage agencies- ISI from Pakistan and China too in the Game.
for more https://sanjeevkotnala.com/predators-...
December 16, 2020
Gripping!
You are pulled into the story from the first chapter itself and it's a thrill a minute ride. The cat and mouse game will keep you up in the night, turning pages.
You are pulled into the story from the first chapter itself and it's a thrill a minute ride. The cat and mouse game will keep you up in the night, turning pages.
June 26, 2021
Awesome read!
Is there a sequel to this book? Would really love to read one! This one was fast paced and un-putdownable.
Is there a sequel to this book? Would really love to read one! This one was fast paced and un-putdownable.
January 12, 2021
What an apt time to read the book - The reading of this book coincides with the launch of WhatsApp's new policy - of tracking everyone - tracking till you are in the grave. USA's NSA (National Security Agency) is notorious for keeping a track of the governments all around the world. But do they track the whole population of a humungous country like India? If we go by the book, Yes they do. But how is it possible? - Sophisticated Algorithms. These algorithms are so smart that they know to separate chaff from the wheat. You visit some sites, text a few keywords, or go to a few suspicious locations and the algorithms will fix their eyes on you and regularly update the NSA.
But an Indian, who helped them build this algorithm initially, was disenchanted when he came to know that his very own creation was used on his own country. He decided to a Snowden. He ran away with all this info on a hard disk. He decided to do an expose with his old-time friend who works at a media company. She decides to run it by her boss to expose it, completely unaware that he is so entrenched in the muck of venality, ruthlessness, and treachery. There is one more character of a dedicated soldier who has lost his wife in a terrorist attack. Won't reveal much now. The book then takes us on a rollercoaster ride.
Every chapter is filled with thrill and mystery. It is so gripping that I completed it in 3 days straight. I stretched out nights, woke up early because the chapters gave me the adrenaline rush. However, I have a complaint. After giving enough high, the climax is quite lulling. I was expecting it to be much better. The revelation of Dan's identity would have done the trick. And that's the reason for 4 rating and not 5.
Read this book if you want to know in what ways the companies and agencies are keeping a track of every breath of yours. I had picked up this sci-fi military thriller because fiction builds imagination and it gives me the idea about futuristic technologies. The sci-fi fiction thrillers are the hotbeds of innovative ideas.
P.S. Books like these are necessary to ensure that reading doesn't become monotonous when one is reading grinding books like "Thinking Fast and Slow". This fiction helped me catch up with the speed of the other book.
But an Indian, who helped them build this algorithm initially, was disenchanted when he came to know that his very own creation was used on his own country. He decided to a Snowden. He ran away with all this info on a hard disk. He decided to do an expose with his old-time friend who works at a media company. She decides to run it by her boss to expose it, completely unaware that he is so entrenched in the muck of venality, ruthlessness, and treachery. There is one more character of a dedicated soldier who has lost his wife in a terrorist attack. Won't reveal much now. The book then takes us on a rollercoaster ride.
Every chapter is filled with thrill and mystery. It is so gripping that I completed it in 3 days straight. I stretched out nights, woke up early because the chapters gave me the adrenaline rush. However, I have a complaint. After giving enough high, the climax is quite lulling. I was expecting it to be much better. The revelation of Dan's identity would have done the trick. And that's the reason for 4 rating and not 5.
Read this book if you want to know in what ways the companies and agencies are keeping a track of every breath of yours. I had picked up this sci-fi military thriller because fiction builds imagination and it gives me the idea about futuristic technologies. The sci-fi fiction thrillers are the hotbeds of innovative ideas.
P.S. Books like these are necessary to ensure that reading doesn't become monotonous when one is reading grinding books like "Thinking Fast and Slow". This fiction helped me catch up with the speed of the other book.
December 7, 2023
Predators and Prey begins well establishing a premise to the reader that it is going to be a thriller. Initial pages of the book form a narrative which kindles interest to the reader as to what may have happened which led to the suspenseful opening. Then on, it goes onto weave together pieces of the puzzle by bringing in characters, situations and places. I found it slightly amusing that the protagonist chooses his friend, a reporter, who isn't that famous or influential to forward his cause. Nevertheless, rest of the plot ploughs through at a good pace building up on the final climax. Characters are established well, power play between two individuals is showcased well almost to the extent of goosebumps scenarios. Another aspect amusing to me was insertion of few Hindi dialogues/phrases here & there. I don't know if such is the norm in Indian novels these days. The final climax could have had more punch, I did not feel like it justified the book's ending. Maybe Abhinav has a sequel planned, who knows :). All in all, this was an entertaining book and I look forward to more from the author.
As an edit, I would like to add few proofreading and/or editing misses which I felt could have been done better.
* Page 158: Deva's words had stirred up a vortex of memories that was not dragged her down ....
* Page 289: Hemang was fortunate man, for his brain did not got the chance to react ....
As an edit, I would like to add few proofreading and/or editing misses which I felt could have been done better.
* Page 158: Deva's words had stirred up a vortex of memories that was not dragged her down ....
* Page 289: Hemang was fortunate man, for his brain did not got the chance to react ....
February 4, 2021
3.5⭐
My first experience reading an Indian author in this genre. Quite a page turner. Easy to read. Took me half a day to read it but was engrossing for as long as it lasted. I literally ate lunch absentmindedly with this beside my plate.
The book reads like the first installment in a series, the author is building a world around international espionage which can be never ending and is actually pretty fun. A bit cliched in places, a bit filmy but i will definitely read the next one if/when it comes out(hopefully something more complicated ,more frenemies)
Thanks to #indicbookclub for the recommendation. Can't wait to see what's in store from you next
My first experience reading an Indian author in this genre. Quite a page turner. Easy to read. Took me half a day to read it but was engrossing for as long as it lasted. I literally ate lunch absentmindedly with this beside my plate.
The book reads like the first installment in a series, the author is building a world around international espionage which can be never ending and is actually pretty fun. A bit cliched in places, a bit filmy but i will definitely read the next one if/when it comes out(hopefully something more complicated ,more frenemies)
Thanks to #indicbookclub for the recommendation. Can't wait to see what's in store from you next
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