#Review: Mission Saudi by Aloke Lal & Maanas Lal

Mission Saudi hit me like a punch to the gut — not because it sensationalises the crime, but because it refuses to. The book walks a difficult line: it recounts a horrifying case with sensitivity while shining a harsh light on the systemic cracks that allowed the perpetrator to slip away in the first place. And that’s where its power lies.

What I found especially compelling was how the narrative follows IPS officer Merin Joseph’s relentless pursuit of justice. She isn’t portrayed as a cinematic “supercop,” but as a determined, deeply human officer battling bureaucracy, sexism, and the emotional weight of a young girl’s tragedy. That grounded portrayal makes the stakes feel painfully real.

The writing is crisp, the pacing is tight, and the case files are woven in just enough to give the story authenticity without overwhelming the reader with legalese. At a few points, the procedural detailing feels heavy, but honestly, it also reinforces how justice isn’t a single heroic moment — it’s an exhausting marathon.

In the end, Mission Saudi becomes more than a true-crime narrative; it’s a reminder of the courage it takes to fight a system and the quiet ferocity behind real-world justice.

Find this book here.