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In Your Blood I Run

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Simla, British India, 1936.

On a cold, wet night, Ratan, a wandering law-college drop-out, is called to pick up his employer, Sara Davenport, from a party at the Governor's residence. As he arrives, he sees a figure in the dark running through the trees. The next second, he sees Sara stumble and fall. He rushes to her, but she dies in his arms. Her throat has been slashed with a knife.

Ratan has blood on his hands. Sara was his employer, his lover, his friend. He decides to flee.

Ratan doesn't know that when the body is discovered the next day, next to it would be a note ... addressed to him.

Set against a country grappling with the colonial rule, this is a thrilling tale about secrets uncovered and innocence lost.

337 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 4, 2023

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Sonia Bhatnagar

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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Krutika.
782 reviews309 followers
March 22, 2023
In Your Blood I Run is a gripping thriller set during the pre-independence era. It is also Sonia’s debut novel but as you read through, it’s hard to believe that because her writing has a certain finesse to it. Revolving around two characters, she weaves a story that also exudes feminism. This is the story of Ratan and Lavanya, two childhood friends who lose touch only to reunite years later because of a murder.

When Sarah, a British army officer’s wife is found murdered in Shimla, all the evidence points towards Ratan. Ratan is more than just her driver. He is also Sarah’s confidant and lover, one who knows all her deepest secrets. Ratan flees immediately because what chance does an Indian have in the British court. When Sarah’s body is discovered, a seemingly controversial book is found next to her which happens to be Lavanya’s.

The police is quick to blame Ratan and his friend Lavanya for the murder and these two seemingly harmless people set about on a journey to prove themselves innocent. The story flows quickly and shines equal light on both the characters. Lavanya’s portrayed as a young woman with a loud mind, who writes about the societal problems pertaining to her gender. A bunch of Brits are added to the story and when the perpetrator was revealed, I was truly surprised.

In Your Blood I Run is a great debut work by Sonia, one that’ll surely place itself as a strong contender for this year’s thriller category.

Profile Image for Dhwani.
687 reviews25 followers
March 5, 2023
3.75/5

Set in colonial India of 1936, In Your Blood I Run by Sonia Bhatnagar follows the story of Ratan and his childhood friend Lavanya.

Ratan, the driver to the Sara Davenport is called to pick her up from the party at the Governor's residence. What he finds instead is his employer and lover, Sara's throat slashed and a mysterious figure running through the dark. Ratan has been framed so he flees the scene but the police are soon after him.

There's also found a very suspicious looking note alongside Sara's body and a book of erotic stories that's been written by Lavanya, Ratan's childhood friend. Ratan is now wonderfully framed. But, is he really innocent? Will Lavanya and Ratan be able to prove their innocence or will they get caught?

With parties, politics, secrets and hunting, Sonia Bhatnagar has successfully painted a scene of the British India. With the story moving along at a moderate pace, there exists a lack of freedom, for love and life in that era of British India. High society Britishers hiding much much more than what can be seen provides a good theme of eerie mystery to the book.

Themes of erotica, friendship, love, betrayal and freedom are explored in this gripping book. The fast paced ending full of action and suspense will leave your in wonder. I love how intricately the plot was woven by the author.

Overall, a good crime thriller debut! I would recommend it.
2 reviews1 follower
January 14, 2023
It is very early in the year, but it seems as if one of the contenders for the book of the year is already out. And what a lovely book this is! A murder mystery, with a love story deftly weaved into it, and all this is set in the British times when the Indians had limited freedom to live, let alone to express, to love, to make mistakes, to go away from the trodden path. To give justice to different themes like love, mystery, betrayal, hope, sensuousness, yearning for freedom, and desire for self-expression is an inordinately difficult task, but Sonia Bhatnagar’s In your blood I run manages it wonderfully. The two main protagonists are Ratan, who is somehow accused of murdering his lover (also the wife of a British army official), and his childhood friend Lavanya, whose book of salacious stories appears at the scene of the murder. There is not a dull moment in the book, and it is written beautifully. The subtext of love and erotica in the conservative times gives it a Chugtai-esque flavor, and I am fairly sure Ismat would approve.
Grab the copy now and have a rollicking time. In your blood I run.
Profile Image for Mili Das.
610 reviews22 followers
March 6, 2023
In your blood I run by Soniya Bhatnagar
This gorgeous cover envelopes an utterly engrossing story that is narrated in a spectacular way. It's a fast-paced crime mystery novel that is set in a time when India was fighting for its freedom. The novel spirals down with the murder investigation of a British woman named Sara Davenport. Besides being a mysterious murder story this book unfurled some more mystery, tightly packed with mysterious twists and complexities of human emotions.


Against the backdrop of colonial India, this story goes on with a tantalizing narrative. Author Soniya Bhatnagar made a remarkable work in her debut novel with her heartfelt storytelling style. With her pictorial depiction and strong characters, Soniya Bhatnagar composed a rich, utterly compelling atmosphere filled with mysterious darkness, emotional dimension, and blood.

When India was fighting for its freedom, women also fought for their right to be human. An author Lavanya Shriram, she constantly fighting with her overlapping thoughts. Her obscure mind peaked to her consciousness, but is this for good or bad? Ratan left his house in search of life out of his father's shadow and is now accused and hunted by police in the charge of the killing of Mrs. Sara Davenport.

Police discovered a book laying by the dead body, Lavanya Shriram is the author of this book and according to the police officer Donald Harper, the book contains antisocial elements which provoked people to kill, so the police want to ban the book. Lavanya Shriram needs to figure out who is the killer, in this way she can save her book and her childhood friend Ratan. Lavanya unexpectedly meets with Ratan after a long time.

The plot is gripping and beautifully articulated with twists and turns. The author never failed the expectations of the readers, every chapter closed with an unexpected twist and kept me thrilled till I finished the book.

Sonia brilliantly waves every character. I loved how Sitara emerged from Lavanya. This is a mind-boggling aspect of the book. Mysticism follows the readers from start to end and this master stroke kept me allured. And I loved the courtroom trial. I find that the courtroom chapter was the most powerful stroke in the book.

That overlapping stream of consciousness was a brilliant interpretation that made me blown away. Furthermore, she added various subplots expertly and gradually developed them throughout the book. The unexpected ending twist was the icing on the cake.

It's a brilliant period book with a murder investigation and lots of Mystery.
Profile Image for Jaituni.
107 reviews3 followers
March 11, 2023
Where do I start to write about this marvellous book which I still find hard to believe, is the debut novel of Sonia Bhatnagar! I rarely start my reviews with praises, but this one is sure praiseworthy! Yes, it’s that good!
Moreover, being an Agatha Christie fan, murder mysteries have always intrigued me which is why I decided to pick up this book and it wouldn’t be fair on my part if I didn’t mention that this book lived up to more than what I had expected of it.

Coming to the story front, the plot is set in British India and zeroed down to the city of Shimla where the seed of the spiralled tale began, starting off with the murder of Sara Davenport, wife of one of the top British officer, Richard Davenport.

Very conveniently, the murderer is pinned down to be Ratan, Sara’s personal chauffer and also secret lover, who is the only one to be present at the crime spot.
Getting caught is not an option for him, which is why he elopes the crime scene and thus begins the cat and mouse chase and alongside the search for the actual culprit, if not Ratan that is!

Lavanya Shriram, an author by profession and Ratan’s old friend, who has no connection whatsoever to the crime, is also brought into the picture of investigation only because Sara was carrying her book when she died which was found at the crime spot along with an encrypted-style note inside it that was addressed to Ratan; which was enough evidence to drag her into the mess!

And thus, with the stage set, the entire story begins to unfold, layer after layer, secret after secret, mystery after mystery, lie after lie, until finally, the truth is revealed!

I absolutely fell in awe with the writing style of the author.
Sonia’s conspicuous choice and arrangement of words, the impactful and power-packed narration and the characters that indisputably felt as though they were bought to life, did the magic for me.
Also, a special mention to Sitara here, a story within the story, which was bought out so beautifully, that it deserves to be applauded.
The court scene and the finale were breath-taking!

All the thriller and murder mystery fans, this is a book that according to me, you shouldn’t miss!
Profile Image for Kajal Kapur.
86 reviews8 followers
August 3, 2023
Prepare to be captivated by this gripping page-turner, an enthralling literary masterpiece, that will leave you breathless. From the very first word, the author skilfully hooks the reader, weaving a web of mystery and suspense that intensifies with each chapter.

Set in the evocative pre-independence era, the book transports readers to the charming backdrop of Shimla. The story opens with a startling scene – Sara found dead in Ratan’s arms, sparking a thrilling cat-and-mouse game that keeps you guessing until the very end.

What sets this novel apart is its exploration of the deeper human psyche and cultural complexities. As the police investigate Sara’s death, the story delves into the cultural sensibilities of the time and how they shaped people’s beliefs and actions. The author masterfully captures the divide between the natives and the British, immersing readers in a rich historical tapestry.

Sonia’s storytelling is nothing short of mesmerising, with Sitara’s parallel track adding a hypnotic layer to the primary narrative. The book is an interplay of emotions, contemplation, and evocative descriptions, making it a thrilling journey of self-discovery for both characters and readers alike.

The novel’s pacing is impeccable, allowing the scenes to unfold with precision and keeping readers at the edge of their seats. With each revelation, the concept of the story evolves, taking unexpected turns that leave you gasping for more.

The fusion of thriller and literary fiction is skilfully executed, interweaving moments of deep introspection amidst the heart-racing plot line. The book prompts contemplation on human nature, society, and the intricacies of the human heart.

“In Your Blood I Run” is a tour de force that demands to be read and celebrated. It’s a compelling blend of history, mystery, and psychological insight that will linger in your mind long after you’ve turned the final page. Don’t miss this literary gem – it’s a true 5-star marvel of storytelling!
Profile Image for Ekta M.
541 reviews4 followers
May 4, 2025
'Oh, you are too kind sir, too kind!'

'That's the evil plan darling, to kill you with kindness'.


Genre: Crime Thriller

Time, Place and Setting- 1936, Simla, British India.

Its five years since Ratan had left his home because he felt caged by his father. Now living in Simla and working for the Britishers, as chauffeur he would drive his employer also his friend & lover Sara Davenport. One night he was suppose to pick her up from a party but instead he finds her out in the darkness with her throat slashed. Fearing that he will be blamed for the murder he ran away from there. When the body is found next day, Ratan is the main suspect because besides Sara's body a book full of sensual tales is found which Ratan had received from his childhood friend Lavanya. Inside the book there was a cryptic note written by Lavanya and she unexpectedly becomes entangled in the crime. The police is hell bent to pin the blame on Ratan.

As the two childhood friends fate entwine, will they together uncover the truth?

#bookreview
Read a good crime thriller after a long time. I was delaying this read since long but when i picked it up i just couldn't put it down.

📌What i loved about the book?

The time and place setting. The overall vibes of simla and colonial period made it interesting.
I loved the intense drama, secrets, unexpected twists and also the emotional angle in the story. It was not just about the crime but also about friendship and love.
The characters rang true and especially loved Lavanya's bold character.
Language is easy and writing is mature. It is fast paced & unputdownable. Right from starting till the end it kept me hooked.
The story was thrilling and heart wrenching at the same time.

You will love it if you like -
Slow-burn suspense.
Mysteries rooted in the past.
Falsely implicated in murder and then uncovering the truth.
Colonial period settings
Profile Image for Siddhant Agarwal.
566 reviews25 followers
July 3, 2023
The book is a wonderful story of murder, intrigue and whodunnit set in the pre-independence era. The book opens in Shimla where we find Sara dead in Ratan’s arms and thus starts a cat-and-mouse game. The story, on the one hand, explores the investigation into Sara’s death by the police and how it shapes up, and on the other hand explores how cultural sensibilities of the time affect people’s notions and their treatment of people. The storytelling is interesting, specially where we have Sitara’s track running parallel to the primary storyline. What I liked about the book was the fact that Sonia has kept the character of the time intact and the divide between the natives and the British has been captured beautifully. The plot of the book has been paced well, and the author has given each scene due time to get processed. As the book progresses and new facts come to light, the concept of the story does too. As a reader you keep guessing who killed Sara, and as you guess the name, something in the story would force you to rethink your choice. The climax of the book, while explaining the incidents, got a bit too complex and I would have preferred things unfolding a bit before the climax so that the reader could have had some time to process things, however the reveal is quite something.

The characters in the book are well crafted and quite apt for the story. I loved the chemistry that Ratan brought into the story, both with Sara and Lavanya. The way his character evolves throughout the story is quite good, and I loved how it comes a full circle in the end. Lavanya’s character as a fiery writer, standing up for herself is extremely well written and adds quite a bit of flavor to the story, specially when facing off with the police.
Profile Image for Saloni Sankhe.
103 reviews1 follower
April 3, 2023
In Your Blood I Run  by Sonia Bhatnagar is a mystery novel set in British India in 1936. The story begins with the protagonist, Ratan, a law college dropout who works as a driver for Sara Davenport, his employer, lover, and friend. On a fateful night, Sara is murdered in the thicket while Ratan waits for her in the car. Ratan is devastated by her death and decides to flee but his plan changes as there's something else store for him.

The book's plot is well-constructed, and the author manages to keep the reader engaged throughout the novel. The historical setting of British India adds depth to the story, with the author skillfully incorporating elements of the political and social climate of the time. The characters are well-developed, and their relationships and interactions are believable.

The mystery aspect of the novel is intriguing, with the reader kept guessing about the killer's identity until the end. The plot twists and turns keep the reader engaged and invested in the story. The author also delves into themes such as betrayal, loyalty, and the nature of love and friendship.

 I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery and is interested in historical fiction.
Profile Image for Silkybansal.
182 reviews15 followers
March 15, 2023
If you're judging this book only by the synopsis you read, let me inform you that this book is not to be taken lightly for it is not only about a mystery to be uncovered and the killer to be found but much more than you could fantasize about.

If a murder mystery is all about timelines and facts and all things real, this story is everything in between, from lies to deceit, from art to entertainment, from imagination to fantasy, from love to jealousy!

I must give full credits to the author for bringing out such colorful portrayals of the female characters in this story.

I was enamored by the grace of Sara Davenport, wit of Lavanya Shriram, charm of Noor, shrewdness of Eden and above all, the hypnotic appeal of Sitara.

I could see the urge and dire need of writing this fiction for the author to bring about myriad of issues centring women and how bravely each of these dauntless characters have stood up against them, raised their voice and took down their suppressor, be it the society, judiciary, government or their own partners.

This fast paced, overly dramatic, brilliantly theatrical novel is going to blow your mind away!
Profile Image for Somya Sharma.
69 reviews1 follower
March 30, 2023
In your blood i run is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. The story revolves around a Ratan, a wandering law-college dropout.
The book is narrated well, Then comes Sara who dies in the arms of Ratan,he is shattered Sara was everything to him,he loved her.

What makes book such a compelling read is the way author puts together different plot threads to create a complex and unpredictable story. The characters are well-developed and each one has their own secrets and motivations, making it difficult to determine who can be trusted.

Overall, it is a brilliantly crafted murder mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Whether you're a fan of psychological thrillers or simply looking for a gripping page-turner, this book is definitely worth a read.
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#muder #thriller #books #booklovers #booksbooksbooks #fiction #fyp
Profile Image for Namrita Sharma.
300 reviews6 followers
February 25, 2024
The story takes place in 1936, before independence, when Sara Davenport is found murdered at the governor's residence during a party. Alongside her body, a book authored by Lavanya Shriram and a note addressed to Ratan are discovered. At the time of the murder, Ratan, Sara's lover, is present but flees the scene. The police suspect Ratan of being the murderer and attempt to apprehend him.

Ratan and Lavanya are childhood friends who embark on separate quests to uncover the truth behind the murder.

Was Ratan truly the culprit, or merely a pawn in a larger scheme?
Will Lavanya be able to exonerate herself and her friend, or will she become ensnared in the investigation?

Despite its appealing cover, the book fails to captivate the reader's interest. It did not resonate with me, and I did not find it particularly enjoyable. I was expecting more out of it because of the perfect premises but was left wanting for more. Although the book is a decent read, it was not for me.
1 review
February 6, 2023
One helluva a roller coaster by Sonia Bhatnagar and just as thrilling. Just the right reading for just about anywhere and anytime. Take it from me, you are not going to put it down till you have run the whole way with lovable, rakish Ratan. Striking all the right chords is sassy, sensual and fiesty Lavanya, a slice of my heart reserved just for her. The tiger hunt , primal fear, green shoes flying with its wearer over every bush, bramble and thicket- if this aint written for celluloid, I dont know what is. And wait- the corpse is not, well, a corpse. Its Sara. Beautiful, soulful and captivating to both man and woman - Sara. Her death is the thread that weaves and entraps. Evocative imagery, the scent of deodar and pine, incidents woven into this period tapestry, love and longing- all remain with you, much after you have put the book down.
77 reviews1 follower
March 24, 2023
"In your blood I run" by Sonia Bhatangar is a captivating thriller set-up in 1930s india under british raj. The main protagonist are ratan and lavanya both are childhood friends. But now here comes the twist, can the two childhood friends come together to track down the real-killer and absolve themselves before it's too late? Do find out by picking up your copy now.

I like the fact that it was set-up in time when India was struggling for it's freedom . Moreover, I found the book little more surprising at various phases through it's vivid description of haunting scenerio's.

Cover of the book is eye-catching and highly appealing. The choice of colour's are quiet perfect and they beautifully blended with each other. Overall , if you want to enjoy a fast-paced murder -mystery set-up in colonial period then you just go for it.

Must read❤❤
Profile Image for JournalsTLY.
469 reviews3 followers
Read
December 4, 2025
An insider joke that led to being accused of murder - the real joke on the background is .

A Indian lady writes novels - erotic novels including one where a young bride is going to be burned in a funeral pyre with her deceased husband - the British had outlawed this but the traditions roll on .

A murder story of Colonial India with the rajahs and white lords on tiger hunts and witch hunts . Three people are killed in this story but many tigers (not directly mentioned ) died .

Sara Davenport - wife of an Englishman - is found dead . Ratan is prime suspect and he runs because natives especially Indian men who lust for white women are always guilty .

Does the blame and guilt for the murder extends to Lavanya ? - her book of erotic stories is found near the dead body
Profile Image for Swapna Peri ( Book Reviews Cafe ).
2,212 reviews82 followers
December 31, 2023
"In Your Blood I Run" is Sonia Bhatnagar's debut novel set in 1936, British India. The story revolves around Ratan, a law-college dropout who witnesses the murder of his employer, Sara Davenport. The novel explores themes of colonialism, nationalism, and individual freedom versus societal good. The story features complex characters like Lavanya, Noor, and Ratan Seth, who become entangled in Sara Davenport's death. The novel's well-crafted puzzle, suspense, and subplots make it a must-read for readers seeking an intelligent and thought-provoking read. The novel's elegant prose and cinematic elements make it a prime candidate for a movie or web series adaptation.
Profile Image for Bhavna.
1 review
March 6, 2023

A writer has burst upon the scene like goodies from a pinata!
I could read this book many times over just for the writing (as i seldom read for plot)
Sonia Bhatnagar is a supremely well baked author, she graphs the mystery and dexterously weaves in a love storyin an abyss of chaos, and manages to set it past-perfect too!
2 reviews
March 23, 2023
Loved this book! So beautifully written! Very very gripping, I could only put it down once I had finished it. Highly highly recommend for all those who like to read crime/suspense novels. And to those who don't as well.
Profile Image for Ved..
128 reviews3 followers
May 6, 2023
2.5 Stars.
Meh.
Profile Image for Asha Seth.
Author 3 books349 followers
April 20, 2025
Intriguing covers are my thing and this one slowly whispers “Come, let me tell you a story.” The eerie feeling that this cover exudes is enough to set the mood and make you grab a glass of wine and begin. I realised that later because I started reading it on a day I was fasting but you, dear reader, would be better off grabbing a favorite beverage and soaking into this roller-coaster of a ride.

Ratan, Lavanya, childhood friends get entangled into the mysterious murder of a Sara Davenport and one can only imagine what that would entail for these two colored people in a white court. This book is fast-paced, engaging, and smartly intellectual for the age its written for. I was enticed at every level learning more about colonial Mumbai and Simla, and the world therein. There is by far, one of the greatest USPs of the book. Characters are well portrayed and are quite savage in their skin. One can’t not be inspired by Lavanya – the author who gets termed ‘outrageous’ for her erotic books exploring female sexuality or smitten by Noor – the actress friend who is a nymph walking down earth charming one and all with her exquisite beauty or Ratan Seth, who appears to be a man evading his preset destiny but what’s in store for him, he had never imagined.

Together, they set out to solve a mystery and when the end comes, mind you, it’ll blow you. Somewhere through the first half, you start to get an idea as to who the culprit might be, but maybe it’s just an Agatha Christie fan testing her wits. The book flits between narratives and each chapter is designed to take the reader closer to the murderer. It is a fine demonstration of writing, plotting, and creating a mystery that is one of the best of its time. I can’t find any flaw other than the narration in some places that got bit me weary since they dealt with too much self-pondering. Having said that, there wasn’t a dull moment and it proved to be a thoroughly entertaining experience. I won’t be surprised if it gets adapted into a movie since it has all the qualities for a runaway hit.

Sonia Bhatnagar’s debut novel ‘In Your Blood I Run’ is a perfect potpourri of mystery, erotica, rebellion, colonialism, dark themes, enticing twists and thrills, that will keep you to the edge of your seat the whole time. Get ready to also experience colonial Mumbai and Simla and be gripped with their beauties. This book is recommended for 18+ for its adult themes.
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