This is a well-written and engaging period mystery. The characters are three-dimensional and believable, the plot is filled with twists and turns, and turn-of-the-century Singapore comes to life in vivid detail. Tackles issues associated with colonialism and gender in a way that feels true to the period but consistent with a more modern perspective.

The Testaments, Margaret Atwood

A wonderful sequel to The Handmaid’s Tale. I think the plot stands alone and could be read in isolation but it will be particularly appreciated by fans of the first novel and of the wonderful television adaptation. Very different in pace and tone from the first novel, it moves more quickly, is more plot and character driven, and less elegiac in its prose. If the first novel was intended as a cautionary tale, this one is intended to inspire and rally us all to continue to fight against oppression and tyranny.

The War in the Dark, Nick Setchfield

A good occult spy novel. For fans of The Clown Service who wished it was a little more like John le Carre. The plot twists and turns are absorbing and the prose is spare and clean. I’m excited to read the sequel!