The Murder of Mr. Ma

The Murder of Mr. Ma

by John Shen Yen Nee and SJ Rozan

Soho Crime, 2024. 300 pages. Mystery

London, 1924. When shy academic Lao She meets larger-than-life Judge Dee Ren Jie, his quiet life abruptly turns from books and lectures to daring chases and narrow escapes. Dee has come to London to investigate the murder of a man he'd known during World War I when serving with the Chinese Labour Corps. No sooner has Dee interviewed the grieving widow than another dead body turns up. Then another. All stabbed to death with a butterfly sword. Will Dee and Lao be able to connect the threads of the murders—or are they next in line as victims?

This modern twist on a Sherlock Holmes-type novel has a lot to enjoy. As our Watson, Lao is loveable and smart, if a little oblivious. Our Sherlock, Dee, is enigmatic and clever and willing to have a little fun at others' expense, while also determined to do right by his fellow soldiers and countrymen. What makes this duo even better is that the characters of Lao and Dee are based on real-life people, although they didn't live during the same time.

The mystery itself is fast-paced, with new suspects and motivations frequently introduced. And the fight scenes in this book were actually choreographed by a kung fu master! This book will be a refreshing read for those who enjoy modern takes on classic mysteries.

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Dead Dead Girls

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