Midnight at Malabar House

by Vaseem Khan
Midnight at Malabar House cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Technical:
  • ID: 220
  • Added: 2025-09-04
  • Updated: 2025-09-04
  • ISBN: 9781473685499
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2020-08-20
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Jo's Book Blog · 2023-08-08
engaging 3.75

The novel is praised for its bold protagonist and the vivid historical backdrop, though some plot elements may feel stretched.

The reviewer enjoyed the character of Persis Wadia, describing her as a bold and daring female detective whose story is compelling against the richly drawn setting of Bombay in the 1950s. They appreciated the atmospheric detail and the integration of historical elements with crime fiction. However, the review also suggests that certain parts of the plot might be a bit thin or overly ambitious, though this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment.

Quick quotes

    Midnight at Malabar House is an interesting crime novel with a bold and daring protagonist.

    I enjoyed seeing the plot play out against the historical and cultural backdrop of Bombay.

    Some elements of the story felt stretched but did not lessen my overall appreciation of the book.

Crime Review · 2020-12-19
intriguing 4.25

The book offers an engaging historical crime story with a strong female protagonist navigating the complexities of post-independence India.

This review highlights the novel's compelling setting in a newly independent India, where the protagonist, a young female detective, faces both societal and political challenges. The narrative successfully blends a gripping investigation with rich historical context, providing insight into the era's tensions and transitions. The reviewer appreciated the character development and the way the story illuminates the broader social landscape of Bombay in 1950.

Quick quotes

    In an India still adjusting to independence, a junior female detective is assigned to investigate a case that is becoming more political by the second.

    The story captures the complexities of a society in flux with an engaging mystery at its core.

    The protagonist's journey offers a fresh perspective on the post-colonial period in Indian history.

Asian Review of Books · 2020-11-18
captivating 4.00

The book appeals widely to readers interested in Bombay, modern Indian history, and historical crime fiction with a strong sense of place.

This review emphasizes the novel's appeal to a broad audience, particularly those fascinated by Bombay's rich history and the early years of independent India. The reviewer notes the book's success in blending crime fiction with historical detail, making it both educational and entertaining. The protagonist's role as one of the first female police detectives adds depth and freshness to the crime genre, enriching the narrative with themes of gender and societal transformation.

Quick quotes

    Midnight at Malabar House will appeal to many kinds of readers: Bombay lovers, those interested in modern Indian history, and anyone who enjoys historical crime fiction.

    The novel offers a strong sense of place and time, vividly capturing Bombay in 1950.

    The character of Persis Wadia is a compelling addition to the genre as an early female detective.

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