Death of a Lesser God

In the fourth book of the Malabar House series, Persis and Archie travel to Calcutta, where they encounter the prejudices and bloody politics of post-independence India. The novel explores themes of justice, belonging, and the complexities of post-colonial India. It has received critical acclaim, including being named a Guardian Book of the Year 2023.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 10 August 2023
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

In the fourth thrilling installment of the award-winning Malabar House series, Persis and Archie venture to the historic colonial city of Calcutta, where they face head-on the prejudices and violent politics of a time consumed by flames.

Beautifully crafted and offering a captivating glimpse into the tumultuous aftermath of India's independence, this novel by Peter May is a testament to his exceptional storytelling skills.

As with his previous works in the Malabar House series, Khan masterfully evokes an entire era and community with a quiet elegance that is truly remarkable.

In the bustling city of Bombay in 1950, James Whitby, sentenced to death for the murder of prominent lawyer and former Quit India activist Fareed Mazumdar, finds himself just two weeks away from his execution. Determined to save his son from the gallows, Whitby's father initiates a new investigation into the killing.

The investigation takes Inspector Persis Wadia of the Bombay Police to the old colonial capital of Calcutta, where, with the assistance of Scotland Yard criminalist Archie Blackfinch, she uncovers a potential connection to a second case: the brutal murder of an African-American G.I. during the Calcutta Killings of 1946.

Are these cases related? And if Whitby didn't commit the murder of Mazumdar, then who did?

This novel is a testament to Vaseem Khan's exceptional writing abilities, as he weaves a intricate and compelling story that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. With his charming and witty prose, Khan transports the reader to the vibrant streets of Calcutta, immersing them in the rich tapestry of post-partition India.

Persis, the hero of the story, is a brave, intelligent, and charming character who emerges as a strong and relatable protagonist. Her journey throughout the novel is filled with challenges and obstacles, but her determination and resilience make her a compelling figure.

The plot of "Death of a Lesser God" is complex and rewarding, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end. The historical backdrop of post-partition India adds depth and richness to the story, providing a backdrop for the political and social tensions that permeate the city.

Overall, "Death of a Lesser God" is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and thrillers alike. Vaseem Khan's exceptional writing and vivid portrayal of post-partition India make this novel a truly captivating and unforgettable experience.

Weight: 588g
Dimension: 241 x 160 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399707602