The Fox Wife: an enchanting historical mystery from the New York Times bestselling author of The Night Tiger and a previous Reese’s Book Club pick

The Fox Wife is a novel about a young woman found frozen in the snow in Manchuria in 1908, and a detective hired to uncover her identity. It is a stunning novel about old loves and second chances, the depth of maternal bonds, and ancient folktales that may be true.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 13 February 2024
Publisher: Quercus Publishing

Vivid, Enigmatic, Enchanting


M. L. Rio's novel, Irresistible, has captivated readers with its captivating story and intriguing characters. While some may believe that foxes roam the world collecting qi, or life force, the truth is far more complex. We, humans, are living creatures, just like you, but often with a more attractive appearance.


Set in Manchuria in 1908, the novel follows the journey of Bao, a detective renowned for his ability to sniff out the truth. When a young woman is found frozen in the snow, her death is shrouded in rumors of foxes, believed to lure people into peril by transforming into beautiful women and men. Bao is hired to uncover the dead woman's identity, and he embarks on a quest that takes him from northern China to Japan.


As Bao follows the trail, he encounters old friends and new foes, and the stakes become increasingly higher. The mystery surrounding the dead woman's identity deepens, and Bao must navigate a complex web of lies and deceit. Along the way, he discovers the true nature of the fox gods and the power they hold over the lives of those they touch.


The Fox Wife is a stunning novel that explores themes of old loves, second chances, and the depth of maternal bonds. It is filled with wonder, mystery, and folklore, and it will leave readers enchanted and captivated. The novel is rich in myth, mystery, and history, and it will transport readers to a world where anything is possible.


Nguyen Phan Quế Mai, in her praise for The Fox Wife, describes the novel as "magical, wondrous, transporting, and illuminating." Sue Lynn Tan praises it as "rich and beguiling," while the i magazine calls it "enchanting." Alix E. Harrow praises the novel as a "rich tangle of myth, mystery, and history."


Irresistible is a novel that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in Bao's journey. It is a testament to M. L. Rio's talent as a storyteller and her ability to create characters that are both captivating and relatable. Whether you are a fan of mystery, folklore, or just a lover of great literature, this novel is sure to captivate your heart and mind.

Weight: 622g
Dimension: 163 x 241 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529429756