Madhav Nayak’s ‘A Murder is Fixed’ is an entertaining and intelligent whodunnit set against the backdrop of a cricket match-fixing investigation. The author introduces Russi Batliwala, a retired umpire with extraordinary powers of observation. Russi is one-eyed, having lost his vision due to an on-field accident, but very sharp, possessing unique deduction skills and a wacky sense of humor. He finds himself drawn towards a murder investigation with links to cricket, and where there is cricket, this gentleman cannot stay away.
Shreya Ved, an investigator on the Shankar Commission probing a match-fixing allegation in Mumbai, is on the verge of a breakthrough. She tries to contact her colleagues, but when they reach, they find her dead, with her head bashed in. Did Shreya’s involvement in the investigation result in her unfortunate death, or is the perpetrator someone with a personal vendetta?
Investigating this case are Inspector Vichare, Constable Lobo, and Russi, in an unofficial capacity. A heady cocktail of murder, deceit and drama ensues with politicians, media, cricketers and policemen concealing their agendas. As the murderer tries to cover their tracks, many uncomfortable truths come to light.
The book highlights murky politics and under-the-table arrangements behind the scenes in the cricketing world. It is also an ode to Mumbai, capturing the spirit of the city through its crowds, quirks, and colloquialisms. The author takes the reader everywhere – be it the humble chawls or the posh clubs, even making one crave crunchy Vada Pav and steaming-hot Adrak Chai.
The story is fast-paced for the most and is quite the page-turner. The plot is well-thought-through, and the final reveal ties up all the loose ends. I had a hunch about the culprit (because I read whodunnits for breakfast, lunch, and dinner), but I did not guess their motive. To nitpick, the pace towards the last chapter slows down. Russi unmasks the culprit in a very Christie-like manner, but I wished the reveal came faster.
I’m not cricket-crazy, so was in two minds about whether to pick this book up or not. When I started reading, I couldn’t put it down, thanks to the twists, turns and red herrings! Russi is quite a memorable character and gives Hercule Poirot vibes. He is well-supported by Vichare and Lobo. I look forward to reading more of the trio’s investigations.
‘A Murder is Fixed’ is an impressive debut! If you like cricket or/and are a fan of whodunnits, this one is for you.
