Marked for Murder is a fast-paced and gripping crime thriller that keeps readers hooked from the very first page. More than just a murder mystery, the novel explores the darker sides of human relationships—greed, betrayal, jealousy, and long-buried secrets.
The story revolves around Rhea Bond, a young, beautiful, and wealthy woman who appears to have the perfect life. However, her world comes crashing down when she is found murdered in her apartment on the very day she was supposed to announce her engagement to her boyfriend, Indra. With her priceless diamond jewellery missing, the crime initially looks like a burglary gone wrong.
The case takes a shocking turn when a fragment of Indra’s gold chain is discovered clutched in Rhea’s lifeless hand. Matters worsen when her phone and watch are later found hidden in Indra’s home. Almost overnight, Indra is transformed from a grieving lover into the prime suspect. Desperate to prove his innocence, he seeks the help of the renowned detective Vikram Rana.
As Vikram Rana investigates, he is drawn into Rhea’s complex and troubled world—an emotionally distant family, a brother drowning in debt, a jealous ex-fiancée, and the vengeful sibling of Rhea’s first love. Even the household staff are not free from suspicion, as each character carries secrets and possible motives for murder.
With every layer of deceit he uncovers, Vikram realizes that Rhea’s death is only the surface of a much deeper conspiracy rooted in the Bond family’s past. The truth is dangerous, and the killer is willing to go to any length to keep it buried.
Writing Style and Impact
Sharmishtha Shenoy’s writing is sharp, engaging, and tightly paced. The suspense builds steadily, with each chapter ending on a note that urges the reader to keep turning pages. The characters are well-developed, and Vikram Rana stands out as a compelling and intelligent detective whose logical approach is balanced with emotional depth.
About the Author
Sharmishtha Shenoy is a bestselling Indian author of crime fiction and psychological thrillers, with over one million pages read on Kindle Unlimited. She is the creator of the popular Vikram Rana Mystery Series and the author of true crime novels such as The Hyderabad Heist and Candle in the Wind. Her background in the tech industry and her analytical mindset add depth and realism to her storytelling.
Conclusion
Marked for Murder is an engrossing read for fans of crime fiction and mystery thrillers. With its intriguing plot, layered characters, and unexpected twists, the novel proves that behind every seemingly perfect life lies a truth that can be both shocking and deadly.
