The saying that "truth is stranger than fiction" holds a lot of weight when it comes to the topic of real-life serial killers. These individuals, who have committed multiple murders over an extended period of time, showcase a chilling aspect of human nature that is both intriguing and frightening. The most famous cases of serial killers throughout history have captivated the public's attention, showcasing the depravity and cruelty that some individuals are capable of. These cases are a reminder of the dark and dangerous elements of society and serve as a warning to always be vigilant and to keep our doors locked at night for our own protection.
Sourabh Mukherjee's real crime novel The Highway Murders chronicles the horrible killings committed by serial murderer M Jaishankar, better known as "Psycho Shankar." Shankar was engaged in a number of rapes, murders, and robberies in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. The narrative recounts a police officer's decade-long hunt for the killer and the several hurdles he confronted along the road. The book takes a comprehensive look at the investigation into serial murders and the challenges that police encounter in arresting the offender. A comprehensive explanation of past killings will make readers sympathise with the victims.
The author does an excellent job of detailing the case and presenting the facts in an appealing and straightforward manner. The specifics of the crimes, as well as the different hypotheses surrounding the case, are fascinating and will have readers on the edge of their seats. The book also sheds light on the difficulties that Indian police have in investigating such crimes, as well as the dearth of resources available to them. The book is well-researched and the author does not hold back in portraying the gritty and often gruesome details of the atrocities, making for an unsettling read. The book also addresses the toll that such cases may take on the victims' relatives and the investigators, which adds to the book's relevance.
Overall, this is an engaging and well-written book that takes an in-depth look at one of India's most known serial murderers and the police efforts to bring him to justice.