Dead on Time—Meghnad Desai’s first novel published by Penguin — has all the trappings of becoming a major summer release when it hits the stands in June. The economist is already showered with praises for offering “a delightful mix of action, humour and realpolitik”. Author Ruth Rendell says, “Dead on Time is a compelling read — a treat for political aficionados, an eye-opener and a shock for the innocent.”

"I showed author Ruth Rendell the drafts and she was very helpful,” says Desai. Crime writer Rendell asked him to write more and develop the plot further. “‘Show more interest in your characters, Meghnad,’ she’d say. ‘Tell me what they wear, what they eat.’