Review: Mistress of Bhatia House

“Mistress of Bhatia House” is the latest book in Sujata Massey’s mystery series featuring solicitor Perveen Mistry. In this story, Oxford-educated Perveen grapples with her own complex feelings about women’s treatment in Indian culture and law while trying to exonerate her client, a former ayah, AND figure out who poisoned a leading businessman in Bombay. She knows the two cases must be connected, but will she figure it out before a killer strikes again?

A host of changes in Perveen’s life, including a new baby in the family and a forbidden relationship, challenge her interactions with others at the beginning of the story. I like that as the story progresses Perveen comes to terms with the changes in her life and finds a way to move forward. This story focuses particularly on the issues women faced in 1920s India, including access to healthcare and status in the justice system. Though Perveen has always been aware of the injustices women face, these issues make her more aware that some women, including herself, have an easier time in society than others.

“Mistress of Bhatia House” is an enjoyable mystery with many twists and turns, while also providing good food for thought on the treatment of women by society and the legal system (and, yes, the reader can easily make connections to today).

This is a great book for those who like historical mysteries. CW: stories of rape.

I received a free e-ARC from NetGalley and Soho Crime. I am leaving this review voluntarily.