House of Beauty

An addictive Colombian crime novel set in and around a beauty salon in Bogota

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 07 March 2019
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

House of Beauty is a captivating Colombian crime novel that takes place in and around a luxurious beauty salon in Bogotá. This intricate and merciless exploration of race and gender politics is a must-read, receiving high praise from various publications. The Guardian describes it as a revelation, offering a rewarding and unexpected insight into a foreign society that is not often documented in novels. Crime Time praises it as a gasp-inducing thriller, comparable to a hot wax treatment. Glamour magazine hails it as a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery, comparing it to a suspenseful and gripping tale.

Set in the exclusive Zona Rosa area of Bogotá, House of Beauty revolves around Karen, one of the skilled beauticians at the high-end salon. However, her role extends beyond the art of waxing and massage. Her clients trust her with their most intimate secrets, sharing details about their breast implants, weekend getaways in Miami, divorces, and affairs.

One rainy afternoon, a teenage girl arrives at the salon for a treatment with Karen. Dressed in her school uniform and reeking of alcohol, the girl is in a state of disarray. The following day, the girl is found dead, and Karen becomes the prime suspect in the investigation. As the mother of the girl searches for answers, she becomes increasingly desperate to uncover what Karen knows.

What is most intriguing is the question of who the girl was going to meet that night. The investigation leads Karen on a journey through the seedy underbelly of Bogotá, where she encounters a cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. As she digs deeper, Karen realizes that the truth is not always what it seems, and that her own life may be in danger.

House of Beauty is a masterfully written novel that delves into complex themes of race, gender, power, and corruption. It is a gripping and suspenseful story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. With its vivid descriptions, compelling characters, and unexpected twists, this novel is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to shed light on the darker aspects of society.

Weight: 184g
Dimension: 131 x 197 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008264277