A Nest of Vipers

A Nest of Vipers cover
Good Books rating 4.28

Technical:
  • ID: 218
  • Added: 2025-09-04
  • Updated: 2025-09-04
  • ISBN: 9781408715253
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2024-05-02
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
The Big Thrill · 2024-06-06
intriguing 4.25

The novel immerses readers in the historical context of India's independence movement with a layered mystery involving political intrigue and street magic. It highlights the complex social backdrop and female emancipation while delivering a suspenseful detective story.

This review emphasizes how the story draws readers deeply into the turbulent period of the 1920s India, particularly around the visit of Edward, Prince of Wales, to Bangalore. The reviewer appreciates the intricate weaving of historical events like political unrest and the independence movement with a gripping mystery that keeps the tension high. Additionally, the inclusion of Indian street magic adds a unique cultural flavor, enriching the narrative. The characters Kaveri and Ramu are portrayed as engaging sleuths navigating a complex social and political landscape, which adds depth beyond the typical detective story. The backdrop of female emancipation further enhances the thematic richness, reflecting evolving societal roles in that era.


Quick quotes

    Takes the reader deep into the historical era surrounding the visit by Edward, Prince of Wales, to Bangalore in 1921.

    Kaveri and Ramu become tangled in a complex web of intrigue, getting pulled into a potentially dangerous plan.

    Amidst the growing rumblings of Indian independence and the backdrop of female emancipation.

Aunt Agatha's · aunt_agatha · 2024-05-02
engaging 4.10

The book explores personal relationships and challenges faced by the protagonist within a vividly depicted 1920s Bangalore, blending mystery with emotional depth. It highlights the protagonist’s growth amid complex social dynamics and evolving alliances.

The reviewer focuses on the nuanced character development of Kaveri, who faces not only the external mystery but also emotional turmoil as key relationships become strained. The narrative is praised for its detailed portrayal of interpersonal conflicts, such as Kaveri's shifting alliances with Inspector Ismail and Anandi, which add layers of tension beyond the central mystery. The strong female community formed around the detective club is seen as a vital support system for Kaveri, emphasizing themes of solidarity and empowerment. The reviewer appreciates how the mystery is intertwined with personal stakes, making Kaveri's journey both compelling and relatable as she navigates suspicion, loss, and determination.


Quick quotes

    Kaveri’s task is twofold: reuniting the magician’s son with his father and proving Anandi’s innocence.

    Kaveri grows a little bit as a person in each novel, with a strong binding thread of love with Ramu.

    Her detective club meetings – populated by women she’s met through her work – are her saving grace.

Simon & Schuster · 2024-05-02
excellent 4.50

The novel is praised for its blend of historical mystery and detective work, featuring a courageous heroine and rich social history. The story combines suspense, period details, and Indian magic, resulting in a rewarding read.

This review highlights the successful combination of suspenseful detective narrative and immersive historical setting. The heroine, Kaveri Murthy, is described as courageous and compelling, anchoring the story as it unfolds against a backdrop of 1920s India with detailed depictions of clothing, housing, and food. The inclusion of Indian jadoo magic adds an exotic and intriguing element that elevates the mystery. The pacing and tension are noted as propulsive, keeping readers engaged throughout. The review, from a reputable source, underscores the book’s appeal to fans of historical and mystery genres alike, praising the book as a rewarding and well-crafted addition to the series.


Quick quotes

    A winning combination of historical mystery and detective work propelled by the-clock-is-ticking danger.

    A courageous heroine; intriguing social history embodied in clothes, housing, and food.

    Indian jadoo magic; and a propulsive plot all add up to a rewarding read.