Devashish Sardana’s The Girl on Fire is a psychological crime thriller that grips you with its premise: three burnt bodies, a missing nurse, and a relentless IPS officer. The book excels in suspense and character depth. Is it worth your time? This honest review breaks it down.
The Girl on Fire: A crime thriller that burns bright?
I’m here to tell you what works—and what doesn’t—in Devashish Sardana’s The Girl on Fire. As the third installment in the Simone Singh series, this book had big shoes to fill. Did it succeed? Well, it is complicated.
What is the story about?
The book opens with a grim discovery: three bodies found in Kullu, shot and burnt beyond recognition. The victims are doctors from the Regional Hospital, and the case lands on the desk of IPS Simone Singh, who’s just returning from a suspension. As Simone digs deeper, she uncovers a labyrinth of lies, missing evidence, and unreliable witnesses. At the heart of the mystery is Nurse Aadya, who has gone missing under suspicious circumstances.
The narrative alternates between Simone’s investigation and Aadya’s desperate attempts to protect her baby while evading capture. The dual perspectives keep the story engaging, but they also highlight some of the book’s weaknesses, which I’ll get to later.
What works in the book?
1. The premise
The setup is undeniably gripping. Three burnt bodies, a missing nurse, and a killer targeting doctors—it’s the kind of premise that hooks you from the first page. Sardana knows how to create a sense of urgency, and the stakes feel real.
2. Simone Singh’s character arc:
Simone is a compelling protagonist. Her recent suspension has left her questioning her instincts, and her vulnerability adds depth to her character. She’s not your typical infallible detective; she’s flawed, relatable, and human. Her struggles with self-doubt and her determination to solve the case make her a character you root for.
3. Nurse Aadya’s dilemma:
Aadya is the emotional core of the story. Her desperation to protect her child is palpable, and her moral ambiguity keeps you guessing. Is she a victim or a perpetrator? The book does a good job of maintaining this tension, though it doesn’t always stick the landing.
4. Atmospheric setting
Sardana’s descriptions of Kullu and the hospital are vivid and immersive. You can almost smell the antiseptic in the hospital corridors and feel the chill of the Himalayan forests. The setting adds a layer of authenticity to the story.
Where does the book fall short?
1. Pacing issues
The investigation feels repetitive at times, with Simone hitting one dead end after another. Some scenes could have been trimmed to maintain momentum.
2. Underdeveloped secondary characters
The supporting cast feels like an afterthought. The hospital staff, Aadya’s acquaintances, and even some of the victims are barely fleshed out. This lack of depth diminishes the emotional impact of the story.
3. A rushed ending
The climax feels hurried. Without giving away spoilers, let’s just say the resolution doesn’t fully deliver on the promise of the setup.
While the book has its share of surprises, some of the twists are telegraphed too early. If you’re a seasoned thriller reader, you might see them coming from a mile away.
A notable quote from this book
“Some fires burn forever, not because they’re fed by wood, but because they’re fueled by pain.”
This line captures the essence of the book—a story about enduring pain and the scars it leaves behind. It is one of the highlights of Sardana’s writing, which is often poetic and evocative.
Other books in the Simone Singh series
The Girl in the Glass Case
The first book in the series introduces Simone Singh as she investigates a chilling case involving a serial killer who preserves his victims in glass cases. It’s a strong start to the series, with a well-crafted mystery and a compelling protagonist.
The Girl with Broken Dreams
The second installment delves deeper into Simone’s personal struggles as she tackles a case involving a missing girl. The book explores themes of trauma and redemption, adding layers to Simone’s character.
Bestselling crime books/Series to read in 2025
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
A psychological thriller that redefined the genre. Adapted into a movie, it’s a must-read for anyone who loves twisted narratives.
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
With over 6 million copies sold, this book is a masterclass in suspense. Its shocking twist has left readers reeling.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
A domestic thriller turned HBO series, this book explores the dark underbelly of suburban life.
The Night Manager by John le Carré
A spy thriller adapted into a critically acclaimed TV series, it’s perfect for fans of high-stakes drama.
About the author
Devashish Sardana is a rising star in the world of crime fiction. Inspired by his love for thrillers and his own struggles with mental health, he crafts stories that are as emotionally resonant and suspenseful. Based in Singapore, he balances his writing career with his work in the beauty industry.
Cover design by Neeraj Nath
MRP -Rs. 299
Pages - 273
Publishing year - 2025
Publisher - EBURY PRESS by Penguin Random House India
FAQs about The Girl on Fire
1. Is this book a standalone, or do I need to read the previous ones?
While it can be read as a standalone, reading the previous books will give you a deeper understanding of Simone Singh’s character.
2. Is the book suitable for young readers?
Due to its dark themes and graphic content, it’s best suited for mature readers.
3. How does it compare to other crime thrillers?
It holds its own against giants like Gillian Flynn and Lisa Jewell, offering a unique blend of suspense and emotional depth.
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What’s your current read? Have you picked up The Girl on Fire yet? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag a friend who loves a good thriller!
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Tushar Mangl writes on books, investments, business, mental health, food, Vastu, leisure, and a greener, better society. Speaker, author of Ardika and I Will Do It.
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