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The Shadow Runner

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The Shadow Runner is a story of two boys who meet at the training ground. While one is an insignificant small-town boy, the other is an athletic unwavering model student; while one finds himself at the crossroads from where he wants to turn back and run away from the training, the other excels in every task. Interestingly, they both have their own unique reasons to aim for the elusive Special Forces and donning the maroon beret.

Kindle Edition

First published July 28, 2020

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118 people want to read

About the author

Vishal Bahukhandi

1 book18 followers
Vishal served in the Indian Army for a decade, in the areas recording highest insurgent activity, such as Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and the Northeastern states. Seeking more adventures in life, just to shake things up, he switched over to the corporate world. As a cubicle-dweller, he oversees cybersecurity operations, safeguarding the assets of one of the largest global financial services firms. He loves short naps, graphic designs, playing guitar and calisthenics. 

From the publishers of the Harry Potter series and The Kite Runner, ‘The Shadow Runner’ is not only a tribute to the academy and the men in uniform, but also a kaleidoscope to a world that many aspire to be part of. The book gives a first-hand account of military academy life, training and camaraderie, and talks about the transformation that military training brings in the fresh off the boat boys to make them extraordinary.

Story was adjudged winner “Best Fiction–English” in the Mumbai Literature festival. It was shortlisted among the Top-20 in a nationwide contest organised by Hachette and DNA.

'The Shadow Runner', that involves disparate emotions and characters, is a story of man's epic transformation from ordinary to something incredible.

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5 stars
91 (86%)
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8 (7%)
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4 (3%)
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2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
Profile Image for Ronald Mate.
14 reviews16 followers
December 6, 2020
This book.. is just amazing. Finished it in one day. As I read the book, I could relate to the characters a lot. I laughed as they laughed, leapt in joy as they did, and cried when they did so. Now I'm here, laying on my bed, probably won't move from here for the next hour or so. I'll need time to think about this book's greatness, and cry a bit more I guess. Goddamn, who's been chopping onions here lately?
Also, this book taught me that IMA just isn't that easy as I made it out to be. I thought if I went there it would only be fun, getting only punishments and all. I hadn't thought about how the seniors may embarrass you, enjoying while seeing you beg for mercy. About how you'd be put in situations you didn't even expect. I like how Virender got smoked by almost everyone in the academy. 5 stars only!! Thank you to the author, sir Vishal Bahukhandi. You're amazing!
Profile Image for Renata.
Author 1 book14 followers
January 21, 2021
I came across this book while looking up a book gift for a friend, and was so piqued by the title and synopsis that I bought a copy for myself, too. Written by an ex-Army officer, The Shadow Runner offers a unique reading experience - a novel set around life in the academy which turns cadets into officers.

While the tagline itself reveals a story about two boys, the book opens in the thick of battle at Kashmir where a special forces officer remembers his "brother", immediately heightening the reader's curiosity about why the story begins with just one of them and what could have happened to the other. We are gradually led into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), with its myriad tales of military life, training, anecdotes, friends and enemies made, banter and shared experiences, camaraderie - everything young cadets go through to complete their training and earn their status as commissioned officers of the Indian Army.

So, each of the characters have their own back story into why they are where they are. And the past leads us to another past, culminating into the reasons for the book's present. A story within a story within a story, such that the conclusion draws you back to the beginning. I love embedded narratives as a genre, and Major Vishal has done a splendid job with this nested story. Of particular interest as a reader, is where the title fits into the storyline, and the revelation of The Shadow Runner is truly magnificent in its tribute to the men in uniform.

A book about friendship, love, sacrifice, discipline, brotherhood, heartbreak, The Shadow Runner is definitely a book for armed force aspirants, but can be enjoyed by every kind of reader. Besides memoirs and non-fiction books about historical events featuring the armed forces, I haven't come across many fiction books authored by officers themselves. It's so beautifully written by a debut writer, I'm glad my year began with some wonderful books and I hope to see more of Major Vishal's literary prowess.
Profile Image for Hrithik Gurondia.
4 reviews
June 11, 2021
It's not everyday you read a fiction which pulls the emotional threads so hard that it's becomes almost impossible to not get overwhelmed. No words could describe it , it's a books meant to be felt .Kudos to Vishal Bahukhandi. A Goodread (pun intended).
1 review1 follower
December 5, 2020
This is such a beautiful book about friendship, love and sacrifice. I bet this book will touch you on a very deep level.
1 review
Read
December 19, 2020
Here's my review

Beautifully written!!!

This book takes you on a roller coaster of emotions. From happiness to love to sympathy to agony. It's hs all emotions covered and the storyline is just phenomenal...

could picture each details captured , taking you into imagining all of it on to the battlefield, life at IMA, the trainings, the commitment , sacrifice reliving your college days looking at this strong bond of friendship taking you back to memory lane...

Altogether put in one masterpiece... Very well written ..

First book..great work..Kudos!!!
9 reviews
June 27, 2021
It had never been for me, that I've got teary eyed reading a novel.
But this one - Magical!
I came across this book when I ask my friend, what should she like for her birthday and she mentioned this book; I got intrigued by the title and the interesting summary, that I bought a copy for myself too.
A book about friendship, camaraderie, love and heartbreaks. The read was indeed overwhelming, tales from inside the academy - life, training, new friends and their shared experiences to all the characters having the backstory; I really like that.
I've not come accross many officers authoring non-fictional books, I didn't even get the idea until the epilogue as how the title perfectly fits into the storyline and about the revelation of The shadow Runner too.

Wanting more, waiting for more!!
Profile Image for Ravi Ranjan.
Author 5 books1 follower
November 19, 2020
This was a quick read, it should go well to all the alumnus from IMA as well as any defense aspirants.... well written and inspiring !
Profile Image for Lakshya Chauhan.
4 reviews2 followers
December 13, 2020
Every now and then, we all go through various challenges that life offers us. It is how we take them on, decides where our life leads us to.
How Virender who could have lived a normal life turns in to a Man of Steel and how Govind his friend, his mentor helped him reach pinnacle of his life sadly by giving away his own dreams.
Book is an amazing read. Till halfway through I was relating the story to movies like Lakshya, 3 Idiots or Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander but realised soon after few more chapters that the uniqueness this story possess deserves accolades, Praises and definitely a five star rating.
A must for all. A booster for all the so called losers who seek motivation. A treat for avid readers. A preamble to IMA life for defense aspirants. This book has it all. Go Buy it and Read it.
1 review
May 14, 2021
It wanted to take reading as a hobby. I chose The Shadow Runner to start from. And it was an amazing read. Like literally it's had all emotions in it. It gave me laughter, tears , josh , n what not. It's like a self transformation book... please give it a read at least once. Happy reading 💟
Profile Image for Kanika.
Author 26 books26 followers
January 11, 2021
I recently finished reading The Shadow Runner by Vishal Bahukhandi. It is the story of two men - Govind and Veer- who join the Indian Military Academy, one motivated by revenge and the other by a paltry heartbreak, and their transition from ordinary to extraordinary. It is a story of camaraderie, brotherhood, determination, sacrifice, love and heartbreak.

A highly recommended novel for those interested in the Indian Army and the Indian Military Academy in particular.

For me, the highlight of the novel was the bold humour. I found myself chuckling and even laughing out loud over the course of the first half of the novel when Veer is an absolutely hopeless case. The action scene at the beginning of the novel is well-written and does its job of hooking the reader.

The main characters are well-developed, the pacing is quick, and most importantly, the novel scores well on what I call the "gripping factor" that keeps the reader wanting to know what happens next. This novel does not belong to the category of the type of novels I usually read, but it is definitely one of a kind.
1 review
December 19, 2020
Friendship and Discipline - The book is really very good. The characters like Virender, Govind, Turbo and Duggal reminded our lost days of friendship and a touch of discipline as well. The background of IMA felt as somehow if we could also be a part of it. Although the story was abt military and death ws also an essential element, bt somewhere I didn't like the death portion. Apart from this, the book is the perfect blend of all the emotions.
Profile Image for Anand Raj.
1 review
May 8, 2021
From where should I start! I really don't
know. I'm glad that I had chosen this book. What to say
about a book which makes you so emotionally
overwhelmed that you've to share everything with your
friend to vent out your feelings. A book which you don't
want to finish just because you're afraid of the ending. I
was intentionally delaying myself from finishing this
book off. Because somewhere I was not mentally
prepared to accept the inevitable ending. I was avoiding
the last three chapters as I was internally afraid because
I knew what was going to happen.And, it took me a bit of
self counseling to convince myself that it's just a fiction
and not reality. Some books are such masterpieces that
when you finish them you sit down for hours to
contemplate about what you've just read. These books
make you a part their story to such an extent that you've
to force yourself out of that engrossing world.This is
one such book. I was so attached with the characters of
this book that I was living their lives with them. Smiling.
Laughing. And getting heartbroken. A good enough dose
of humor in this book can suddenly make you burst into
laughter. And, author must be complemented for his
excellent writing style. Grabbing minute yet essential
details. Reading this book was just like watching a
movie.
The Shadow Runner.This is a story of dream, friendship,
love, betrayal, heartbreak, struggle and death. What |
loved the most in this book was the undying sense of
camaraderie that military training inculcates deeply
inside the soldiers and officers. The brotherhood which
precedes before their own life and death.
This is a story of two boys. Training together in the IMA.
Had their own reasons for choosing this profession.
Had their own heartbreaking pasts. But one destination.
They were bound together with a deep sense of
brotherhood. A story which is capable of making you
laugh and making you cry. You'll never regret reading it.
A big thanks to Major Vishal Bahukhandi (retd.) for bringing forth such a great masterpiece.
Sir, would like to read more such stories from you. And, I'm sure that I'm not only one to expect something like this from you.
Profile Image for Neetu Nazareth.
40 reviews7 followers
January 9, 2021
The Shadow Runner was a beautiful read. Well paced, well narrated story of a few young boys who meet at the IMA and form a warm undying friendship.

On a little digging I learnt that the author of the book, Mr. Vishal Bahukhandi, has served in the army more than a couple years before retiring to a civilian life. That explains his attention to detail when it comes to the workings of the Indian Military Academy. It was heartwarming to read a meticulously crafted story that elicited giggles and heartache by a man who has served in the army. It goes to show that tough men can express too, and express well at that.

It's a relatively light read, kept me engaged throughout. The way the story progressed and ended was simply fantastic... all the right chords struck at the right moments. And Major Vishal, the author, seems to have a very refreshing sense of humor too. In a nutshell, it's a charming story that will stay with you for a long time.

A recommended read.
1 review
January 6, 2021
Well, the fastest book ever completed..

If the author is reading this "I haven't been to a candle lit dinner as yet but ur book was first for a candle lit reading majorsaab" There was no power but couldn't resist reading.

...I would say this book is sure a whirlwind of emotions, sure to make you high on emos....if u value emotions, frenship and a person who values commitments. No matter if your frens reciprocated same way or not, it is sure to remind you of your buddies and emos u carried then. Or can just laugh at a look back....the sweet nothings.....

The book also reveals importance of a good coach in life.....ppl disapprove of u will be very many but just a few would have the courage to walk with you through the tough times. The one who when are around, you know u would be ok...

Avni and Turbo remain favourite characters by far....


Kudos to the good work ❣️❣️
Profile Image for Gigi325.
109 reviews
May 5, 2021
What a beautiful story! It has everything a good story possesses. Friendship, love, humor, and all emotions in between. It’s very uplifting and full of hope. It will twist your heart and tissues are required. This is the best book I have read this year. I loved it and will not forget Major Bahukhandi’s story. This story makes me very proud to be an avid reader.
1 review
July 10, 2021
Just Marvelous! I am very fond of reading and doing so since last year but in my experience I have never read a book in this less time. With every word you read, it stimulates you to turn the page and continue. Time just passes with a blink when you read it.
It's written in such a manner that even the reader can feel himself inside the story. The way things are are explained like about "Rohan and his Dad" and "Turbo and party got the news on their POP" it will left your tears dropping. This book will teach you exactly what TRUE FRIENDSHIP is.
Perfect combination of Romance, Thrill, Motivation and Inspiration and lots of emotions. I wish if someone could erase this book from my mind so that I can read it again.
For Defence Aspirants, this book is perfect and you can relate every single thing. So to all those who read my opinion over this, Don't think anymore just grab this book.
13 reviews1 follower
Read
March 28, 2021
Simply loved this

Hats off man. I lived a long desired dream of experiencing army and the great training days. You took me through it. Loved it. Lived it. Easy breezy book with heart at the rightttt place
1 review
May 14, 2021
This was the first ever novel I have read in my life. A perfect blend of Bravery, Dedication, Friendship,Fauji life and Romance. An Epic transformation of an ordinary civilian boy to a Special Forces officer. The most special part being the answer to IO "Prerna se Prerna mili". Beautifully written a plot where it proves that a friend may die but the Friendship won't. A beautiful touch of Army life and excellent description of life in IMA. I would suggest that Each Defence Aspirat must read this book once and everyone having links somehow with defence should read this book. I am sure that no one would get bored reading this even for a minute. Yes this is and will be my favourite novel.
Profile Image for Rahul Pathak.
1 review1 follower
December 3, 2020
loved he fiction, felt like i was monitoring everything sitting there in the academy a must read for all the defence aspirants don't want to spoil your read by revealing anything,so just read it.
Profile Image for The Bookish Elf.
2,878 reviews448 followers
April 14, 2021
It humbles me to tears, that while most civilians attend movies, shop for new cars, sleep, and have barbecues in the backyard, there is a group of men and women who voluntarily spend time away from family, endure brutal tests of physical and mental endurance, risk injury, and even sacrifice their own lives, so that we can continue on in blissful ignorance of the dangers we face. "The Shadow Runner" is one man's account of our military's elite fighting units, their life in training and beyond, and it is captivating!

The Shadow Runner is quite simply one of the best military fiction book written by an army man himself, Major Vishal Bahukhandi. The operations and experiences are just utterly visceral and you'll find yourself frozen, jaw slightly open, while reading them. But it's author's own internal commentary that lifts the book from being a series of intense action pieces to something greater.

The story is focused on life of two characters, Veer and Govind, who join military academy for their own reasons; one because of a heartbreak and another for a vengeance. The Shadow Runner is a story of their friendship and redemption. It has romance, friendship, humour, action and everything you would expect from a great book.

When Major Vishal writes about the bravery of the man in armed force and how one moment erases all differences among men, you know you're reading something very, very special. Both main characters, Veer and Govind are warrior - philosophical yet possessing truckloads of the intestinal fortitude necessary for doing the things these men are tasked with doing. They're at once measured, reflective, almost stoic, and exuding honesty. What you will read in this amazing book is an unflinching, honest account of incredible things witnessed by an incredibly measured man.

Not only Vishal Bahukhandi is a great storyteller, conveying all the suffering, elation, friendship, and hardships of his life as member of this elite group of soldiers, he also shows that reality can be more interesting than fiction. Though the book is work of fiction, author has put his own experiences at military academy into the story. The insight into army training was fascinating, as were all other aspects of author's own military experience.

The Shadow Runner is a powerful, beautiful story, full of action and reality, a story of brotherhood, of pushing the limits of the body, mind and spirit. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an honest account of what these men endured, as well as their incredible accomplishments, interested in military life, the psychology of soldiers in combat, or the training, organization, and practices of elite armed forces.
1 review
August 14, 2021
One of the best books that I have read on friendship. The end was very emotional. And whole book was a beautiful journey.
Profile Image for Dêvängnâ Sönï.
1 review
June 14, 2021
An immortal piece of work.
Accident indeed.. but a happy one when I came across the title during eavesdropping on a conversation. Since then I've read it twice and both the times I have experienced emotions that I couldn't express. I thank the author for presenting this generation of bookworms with this beautiful gift.

Profile Image for Buyerbooks.
19 reviews
August 29, 2021
It is one of the best books, loved the writing style, loved the story, loved the characters, everything was so perfect, literally, I got goosebumps while reading this book.
Profile Image for Sahil kumar.
7 reviews
January 7, 2021
An amazing book .
Must read for all defense personal and aspirants .
Takes you on a roller coaster ride filled with emotions and humour.
Profile Image for Niti Dave.
16 reviews6 followers
January 18, 2021
It left me speechless...! Indeed amazing..simply wow! Story of boy turned into Officer and all the emotions described are best!
10 reviews
December 10, 2020
It is perhaps one of the best book i have read. As a reader its a very special feeling to experience so many emotions in one book with such a clarity. It was like everything was happening right before your eyes.

Just amazing!!
1 review
August 8, 2021
I don't know what to say,
I can only say that this book impacted me.
From childhood I want to join defence force and this book boosted my confidence again.
Book full of Action, Romance, Love, and Emotional attachment.
A blend of a Dream and Love life...
Thank you Vishal sir for having conversations with me Love your book ....
Tarun Marskolhe
(From a small town Gondia, Maharashtra)
Profile Image for Arjun Ram Singh.
1 review
January 4, 2021
A very well written book.took me back to academy days and made me think of those wonderful times once again.Great times and great friendships that last forever.
1 review
July 9, 2021
This is the perfect book for someone who is willing to go to academy or have some interest on it. This book has everything
From love
Brotherhood
Fun
Drama
I mean everything you can imagine is it in this book. Just love the way Maj Sahab wrote it😍💯💯.

Go for it 100% it is totally worth it
1 review
June 7, 2021
A must read book, if u doubt , just read two page of this book and rest will be history.
Not only a defence aspirant will love this book, if u love movies , series of suspense ,action, romance... Give it a try , nothing is better than this.
Thankyou sir for this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews

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