Fiction, Crime, Detective
Introduction:
A gripping crime thriller in which a long-unsolved rape and murder case resurfaces years later—triggered by an anonymous online novel. The story explores the complex tension between truth and justice, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. In the 1990s, a string of horrific rape-murders shocked an oil city—five women were killed, and one survived. Police captain Xin Jiran, under immense pressure, identified his own son as the prime suspect based on the survivor’s testimony. In a desperate attempt to uncover the truth, he interrogated his son harshly, leading to the boy’s death from a hidden medical condition. Xin was imprisoned, and the case was left unsolved.
Five years later, a deadly chlorine leak at a chemical plant brings new clues to light. As investigators follow the trail, they hit a dead end. At the same time, a mystery novel titled Abyss quietly gains attention online. To the police’s shock, its plot mirrors the details of the old case—details never released to the public…
About the Author:
Shen Lan (a pseudonym) is a former police officer in China. He served in various roles including community policing, public security, criminal investigation, and anti-narcotics, and was involved in several high-profile provincial and national cases. Since 2016, he has been publishing non-fiction works based on his real-life experiences on the front lines of law enforcement, with over one million words written to date.
Known for his documentary-style storytelling and deep insight into human nature, Shen Lan has gained a wide readership. His major works include Shen Lan’s Stories, Abyss, and The Third Squad. His writing has not only been recognized in the literary world but has also been adapted into film and television, further expanding his influence. Shen Lan’s style is realistic and nuanced, prompting readers to reflect on social issues and the complexities of human nature.