Teen author Shivani R P’s debut title, “Who’s My Next Victim? – Dreams Are Harmless Or Are They?” is a gripping psychological thriller that combines mystery, dark arts, and an exploration of deep human emotions. From the first page, the story pulls the readers into an intense and suspenseful journey of secrets, dreams, and revelations that keep you guessing at every turn. With its carefully constructed narrative, sharp writing, and a perfect blend of intrigue and emotional depth, this novel is a standout in the thriller genre. Besides, the manner in which the author had carried out the task of storytelling in her book is captivating enough to make the readers quench for more with every turn of the page, and this is something that actually makes this title reading worthy!
Author Shivani R P is a 14 year old aspiring author in high school who has been captivated by storytelling from a young age. With a talent for suspense and intrigue, she has written multiple short stories and even published one on her own. Her debut novel, “Who’s My Next Victim?” started as a raw idea during one of her math classes, it blossomed into a fully developed, published book in a span of two and a half years. Apart from writing, she enjoys playing with numbers in math classes and performing experiments in physics. She has also developed a passion for music and has loved playing the keyboard since she was 9. She hopes that her work will inspire other young authors to pursue their own stories, no matter where or when inspiration strikes. Shivani lives in Bangalore and balances her passion for writing with her high school studies and creative hobbies. Whereas, this particular title, “Who’s My Next Victim? – Dreams Are Harmless Or Are They?” is published by Astitva Prakashan and is released during the period of January 2025. Also, the book is available in both paperback as well as in e-book format and the readers can find this title on all the top online marketplaces.
At the heart of this novel, “Who’s My Next Victim? – Dreams Are Harmless Or Are They?” are four high school friends — June, Ava, Asher and Austin who are thrown into chaos after the mysterious and tragic death of their classmate, Grace. What initially seems like a straightforward mystery soon takes a dark and eerie turn. Dreams start haunting the friends, revealing cryptic clues and unsettling secrets that challenge their understanding of reality. The suspense builds layer by layer, as each clue and revelation draws the characters deeper into a tangled web of danger and deceit. Author Shivani R P skilfully blurs the lines between dreams and reality, creating a chilling atmosphere that keeps the reader on edge!
On top of that the narrative is tightly paced, ensuring that there is never a dull moment. While the mystery keeps the readers hooked, the emotional core of the story lies in the relationships between the characters. The bond between June, Ava, Asher and Austin feels genuine, providing moments of warmth and connection amidst the darkness of the plot. Their shared determination to uncover the truth, despite the risks, highlights themes of loyalty and resilience. Through its portrayal of the complex characters and their emotional journeys, the story resonates on a personal level, making it more than just a typical thriller.
One of the Notable Strengths of this title is its incorporation of the dark arts. The supernatural aspect of the story adds a layer of mystique and unpredictability that sets it apart from other thrillers. Dreams play a pivotal role in the narrative, acting as both a source of guidance and a chilling reminder of the unknown forces at play. Despite the supernatural elements, the story remains grounded in reality, especially in its portrayal of human emotions and struggles. This balance between the mystical and the realistic is a testament to author Shivani R P’s skill as a storyteller. Even more, the twists and turns in the plot are genuinely surprising, making it nearly impossible to predict the ending. This unpredictability is one of the book’s greatest strengths, ensuring that readers remain engaged until the very last page!
Moreover, author Shivani R P’s writing is sharp and evocative, capturing both the suspenseful and emotional aspects of the story with equal finesse. The descriptive prose immerses readers in the eerie atmosphere of the novel, while the emotionally charged dialogue adds depth to the characters. The pacing is impeccable, with each chapter ending on a note of suspense that compels you to keep reading.
Now, upon reaching the final part of the review, i.e. the Book Verdict, we can conclude that a title like “Who’s My Next Victim? – Dreams Are Harmless Or Are They?” is for sure a reading worthy title. The book deserves a chance by the readers as it is a masterfully crafted psychological thriller that combines mystery, suspense and emotional depth. Teen author Shivani R P’s ability to weave together a chilling mystery with heartfelt themes of friendship and resilience makes this novel a compelling and memorable read. The book is perfect for the fans of thrillers who enjoy a touch of the supernatural and a story that delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships!
Undoubtedly, the novel serves as a thrilling and emotionally resonant tale that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Significantly, with its gripping plot, relatable characters, and powerful themes, indeed the title is a MUST READ for anyone who loves a good mystery with a dark, thought-provoking twist.
Book’s Link: https://www.amazon.in/dp/9358389931
Book: Who’s My Next Victim? – Dreams Are Harmless Or Are They?
Author: Shivani R P
Publisher: Astitva Prakashan (2025)
Total Pages: 354
Reviewed By: Neel Preet
