Psycho Path by Prerna Wadhawan

 Psycho Path by Prerna Wadhawan

“Psychopaths aren’t made. They’re evolved. A gene that strips out the noise of empathy, guilt, hesitation. It lets them do what the rest of us can’t.”

“Animals kill to eat or defend. Psychopaths kill for pleasure and remember every detail.” She leaned closer, hands moving as she spoke. Her voice pitched up. “Cold-blooded, intelligent, observant, no moral compass. The most dangerous combination.” Su’s hand found her wrist under the table, squeezing it gently. A warning. Niya didn’t slow down.- Quote from the book that made me linger  to read more.

The story kept me guessing about the character Robin Hood, who is being desperately researched by Niya. She is typing something in her pocket tab and making folders about her findings regularly. I was into the book till the last page to know why this Robin is wearing handcuffs and what his each movement or turn actually depicts.

The author's writing style and ability to blend psychological tension with issues that make us uncomfortable are commendable. Her vivid depiction of social issues like bullying, social conditioning, social media validation, and much more brought another twist in the story.

As I navigate the human psyche with Niya serving as a guide, I understand the craze of social media and how the idea of social acceptance through “reach” can affect not just a person but almost an entire generation of teenagers. The cat-and-mouse game that Niya and Robin play throughout the book is calculated, gripping, and disturbing, all blended into one.

The subject of moral compass and whether biology is to blame for some people being more criminal than others is an essential one, and the book does an excellent job of addressing it. The writing in the book is highly engaging, and while some situations may distress the reader, the visual writing allows you to visualize some of the scenes as they unfold.

The narration is slow and thoughtful, and there are moments when you stop and wonder if we have truly gotten so obsessed with 15 seconds of fame that numbers are all that counts to us. It made me rethink the thought process of many people who live around us.

Overall, it is a thought-provoking read.

Purchase here.