“Who’s My Next Victim?: Dreams are harmless… or are they?” by Shivani R P is an enthralling debut novel that masterfully blends the allure of mystery with the chilling intrigue of dark arts. This book takes readers on a gripping journey through the lives of four high school friends—June, Ava, Asher, and Austin—who find themselves entangled in a web of eerie occurrences and unsettling truths that test the limits of their courage and friendship.
The story begins with the untimely and mysterious death of Grace, a vibrant and lively student, found lifeless in her dorm room. This incident sets off a series of strange and inexplicable events, including vivid, unsettling dreams experienced by the protagonists. These dreams weave a story that contradicts the apparent reality, forcing the friends to confront their fears and delve deeper into the enigma surrounding Grace’s death.
What stands out in this narrative is Shivani’s ability to create a vivid atmosphere of suspense and dread. The descriptions of the dreams and the gradual unraveling of dark secrets are both haunting and captivating, leaving readers eager to turn the page. The characters are well-drawn, each with distinct personalities that contribute to the dynamic of the group. Their interactions feel authentic, and their growth throughout the story is both compelling and relatable.
As the friends piece together clues and struggle to escape what seems like an endless loop of confusion and danger, they uncover secrets that challenge their understanding of the truth. The plot twists are well-executed, keeping readers guessing and questioning the reality presented to them. Shivani skillfully blends elements of the supernatural with the everyday lives of her characters, creating a story that feels grounded yet otherworldly.
One of the novel’s strengths lies in its pacing. The story unfolds at a steady pace, maintaining a balance between action, suspense, and character development. The mystery deepens with each chapter, and the revelations are timed perfectly to keep readers engaged. Shivani’s prose is clear and descriptive, painting vivid images that enhance the eerie and ominous tone of the narrative.
It’s remarkable to note that Shivani R P, at just 14 years old, has crafted a story with such depth and complexity. Her passion for storytelling shines through in her writing, and her talent for building suspense and intrigue is evident throughout the novel. The fact that this book originated as an idea during a math class and evolved over two and a half years into a fully developed story is a testament to her dedication and creativity.
Shivani’s ability to balance her academic life with her passion for writing is inspiring, and her debut novel serves as an encouragement for young writers to pursue their dreams. Her love for storytelling, combined with her interests in music, science, and mathematics, adds a unique perspective to her writing, making her voice fresh and engaging.
“Who’s My Next Victim?” is a promising debut that will appeal to fans of mystery, suspense, and the supernatural. It is a story of friendship, resilience, and the courage to confront the unknown. As readers reach the final pages, they are left with a lingering sense of curiosity and anticipation for what Shivani R P will create next. This book not only showcases her immense talent but also establishes her as a rising star in the world of young adult fiction.Top of Form
