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Bangalore Detectives Club #3
A Nest of Vipers
This latest novel in the Bangalore Detectives Club mystery series takes the reader deep into the historical era surrounding the visit by Edward, Prince of Wales, to Bangalore in 1921. When the prince begins a tour of a number of Indian cities, he encounters passionate crowds demanding independence from Britain, with rioting on the streets of Bombay in November 1921.
The mood of the prince's subsequent trip to Bangalore and Mysore in January 1922 appears, at first glance, very different and is made to large, welcoming crowds. But perhaps all is not what it seems to be. While exploring another (seemingly unrelated) crime scene, Kaveri and Ramu become tangled in a complex web of intrigue, getting pulled into a potentially dangerous plan that could endanger the life of the visiting prince.
This new novel also takes us into the world of jadoo—Indian street magic—with sleight-of-hand magicians, snake charmers, and rope tricks. Kaveri and Ramu continue their sleuthing, with help from the Bangalore Detectives Club, amidst the growing rumblings of Indian independence and the backdrop of female emancipation.
Listening 11 hrs and 3 mins
The mood of the prince's subsequent trip to Bangalore and Mysore in January 1922 appears, at first glance, very different and is made to large, welcoming crowds. But perhaps all is not what it seems to be. While exploring another (seemingly unrelated) crime scene, Kaveri and Ramu become tangled in a complex web of intrigue, getting pulled into a potentially dangerous plan that could endanger the life of the visiting prince.
This new novel also takes us into the world of jadoo—Indian street magic—with sleight-of-hand magicians, snake charmers, and rope tricks. Kaveri and Ramu continue their sleuthing, with help from the Bangalore Detectives Club, amidst the growing rumblings of Indian independence and the backdrop of female emancipation.
Listening 11 hrs and 3 mins
518 pages, Library Binding
First published March 5, 2024
232 people are currently reading
1045 people want to read
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May 8, 2024I really liked the first two in this series, but this one is a mess. A lot happens, you forget who did what, there's circus performers and wrestlers and also royal visits and the Independence movement and it's a lot that might or might not fit together. But I'd forgive it, if the character stuff wasn't silly - the great detective doesn't do much detecting so much as barge into situations and then be rescued, and she also doesn't seem all that bright in this one. Also, waaaay too much exposition in dialogue. A shame, because the essential charm of the characters and setting is still there.
April 15, 2025
The most famous female detective in all of India in 1921 Kaveri Murthy attends a circus performance with her husband and a friend. (Kaveri may be the only female detective in all of India, but she’s well respected by the public and police alike.) The circus visit turns into a disaster: Despite a heavy police presence, a popular magician completely disappears, masked thugs try to rob the wealthy British and Indian audience members, and one of the gang’s thugs is killed.
This third novel in the Bangalore Detective Club doesn’t quite measure up to Harini Nagendra’s other two novels, both ; there’s simply too many pages of Kaveri fretting without being able to take action until the last few chapters, when the excitement greatly increases. Still, when is it not a delight to re-encounter Kaveri and her friends, her modern doctor husband Ramu, intrepid orphan Venu and her now-admiring mother-in-law Bhargavi? Plus, I must commend Nagendra for making the attitudes, sights, sounds and even smells of colonial India come alive for readers. In addition, as always, I learned so much about the India of a century ago.
This third novel in the Bangalore Detective Club doesn’t quite measure up to Harini Nagendra’s other two novels, both ; there’s simply too many pages of Kaveri fretting without being able to take action until the last few chapters, when the excitement greatly increases. Still, when is it not a delight to re-encounter Kaveri and her friends, her modern doctor husband Ramu, intrepid orphan Venu and her now-admiring mother-in-law Bhargavi? Plus, I must commend Nagendra for making the attitudes, sights, sounds and even smells of colonial India come alive for readers. In addition, as always, I learned so much about the India of a century ago.
May 8, 2024
I really enjoyed this novel, the third in the author’s mystery series. I highly recommend it if you like historical mysteries and exotic (to me) locales, especially with a strong woman making her place without regard to the many impediments making things difficult for her!
May 20, 2024
I was looking forward to this latest instalment in the series and was not disappointed. Kevari and Ramu find themselves involved in the disappearance of a circus magician and uncovering a ring of thieves; meanwhile the independence movement and law enforcement prepare for the visit of the Prince of Wales. I really enjoy the regular cast of characters in this series.
July 5, 2024
I read (or, more accurately, listen to) this series for the setting, the cultural history, and the mouth-watering descriptions of the many meals, snacks, and tasty treats the characters are constantly eating…the plots are mostly forgettable (and the mysteries completely implausible). The audiobook narrator and her many voices for the large cast of characters are most entertaining!
August 10, 2024
Eh
I did like this story. I was frustrated many times, however, with repetitive sentences and sentiments that were close upon each other's heels. It did not engage me as the previous books had. I skimmed a lot. I wonder if the author felt rushed to produce this novel or the editor took a holiday from their job. I hope the next one will be better.
I did like this story. I was frustrated many times, however, with repetitive sentences and sentiments that were close upon each other's heels. It did not engage me as the previous books had. I skimmed a lot. I wonder if the author felt rushed to produce this novel or the editor took a holiday from their job. I hope the next one will be better.
September 23, 2024
The Bangalore Detectives Club is back in action and this time the lead detective and our dear protagonist has found herself to be in deep danger.
It is January 1922 and the Bangalore Constabulary is on high alert owing to the visit of Prince of Wales. Kaveri finds herself tangled in the case of a disappearance but its no ordinary disappearance for the magician of the famous Bangalore circus has vanished into thin air amidst being shackled in an iron cage filled with deadly snakes.
Upon investigating, Kaveri discovers the extent of danger she is in when goons follow her everywhere and murders just don’t stop. The tensions are high and Inspector Ismail too refuses to listen to her. Would our detective manage to keep herself alive? Read the book to find out.
What a thrilling book! Harini ma’am has done it again! A perfectly blended plot with thrilling and gripping narration will make this book un-put-downable for you. The description and narration was is beautiful that the tension in the then ongoing scenes manifests as a rapidly beating heart. Harini ma’am knows how to play with the emotions of the readers quite well. It’s commendable how she blends the historical component of the story with the mystery one. These series are one of the first that are set amidst the British Raj in India. Also, the brief characters who have been helping Kaveri with her detective work have a relatively greater presence in this story and that add to the ‘Detective Club’ component.
Eagerly awaiting the next part, I would be recommending this book to all the fans of detective fiction.
It is January 1922 and the Bangalore Constabulary is on high alert owing to the visit of Prince of Wales. Kaveri finds herself tangled in the case of a disappearance but its no ordinary disappearance for the magician of the famous Bangalore circus has vanished into thin air amidst being shackled in an iron cage filled with deadly snakes.
Upon investigating, Kaveri discovers the extent of danger she is in when goons follow her everywhere and murders just don’t stop. The tensions are high and Inspector Ismail too refuses to listen to her. Would our detective manage to keep herself alive? Read the book to find out.
What a thrilling book! Harini ma’am has done it again! A perfectly blended plot with thrilling and gripping narration will make this book un-put-downable for you. The description and narration was is beautiful that the tension in the then ongoing scenes manifests as a rapidly beating heart. Harini ma’am knows how to play with the emotions of the readers quite well. It’s commendable how she blends the historical component of the story with the mystery one. These series are one of the first that are set amidst the British Raj in India. Also, the brief characters who have been helping Kaveri with her detective work have a relatively greater presence in this story and that add to the ‘Detective Club’ component.
Eagerly awaiting the next part, I would be recommending this book to all the fans of detective fiction.
July 9, 2025
I love this Indian historical fiction murder mystery series so much!!
May 15, 2024
A Nest of Vipers by Harini Nagendra is another intriguing historical mystery in the Bangalore Detectives Club series that keeps you turning the pages to its satisfying conclusion.
Starting off at a circus magic show and progressing through a secret meeting to support Indian independence from Britain to a royal visit, the storyline is full of twists and turns punctuated by misdirection, revelations, and increasing danger that keep you engaged throughout. The characters range from strongmen to urchins and thieves to police, providing an added dimension to the tale as Kaveri reaches out to friends to help her solve the disappearance at the start of the novel.
The historical insights provide a fascinating glimpse at the tension between the British and the Indian people of the time, from a point of view that is often lacking for those of us who live in the west.
Nagendra weaves it all together flawlessly, providing another well-written mystery that is difficult to put down.
Starting off at a circus magic show and progressing through a secret meeting to support Indian independence from Britain to a royal visit, the storyline is full of twists and turns punctuated by misdirection, revelations, and increasing danger that keep you engaged throughout. The characters range from strongmen to urchins and thieves to police, providing an added dimension to the tale as Kaveri reaches out to friends to help her solve the disappearance at the start of the novel.
The historical insights provide a fascinating glimpse at the tension between the British and the Indian people of the time, from a point of view that is often lacking for those of us who live in the west.
Nagendra weaves it all together flawlessly, providing another well-written mystery that is difficult to put down.
May 23, 2024
I really struggled with this book. I don't think I should read anymore in the series, but I suspect I will. That's part of why I'm leaving this review...so I have a reminder of how I feel about this series when the next one comes out.
Part of my struggle is that I don't know if this book and series know what they want to be. Is it a cozy mystery or a serious historical fiction analysis of life in colonial India that also happens to have an amateur female detective? Whichever it's trying to be, I don't think it does well in either genre. There are a lot of serious themes that the author seems to be trying to explore - the experiences of women of women and people of different caste in India who are facing their own unique challenges while also living under the yoke of British imperialism, some of whom are also participating to varying degrees in the independence movement. And of course there are the mysteries and Kaveri's desire to live a more intellectual life, which apparently is only available to her through her detective hobby. And the dynamics of arranged marriage and, fortunately for Kaveri, falling in love. And her female friendships that are able to move beyond caste and social status, so she can develop and maintain friendships with society women, business women, and working women who might be servants or former prostitutes.
All of this could be very interesting, but...Kaveri is not a serious character. She's annoying, immature, and makes a lot of poor choices. To the extent that her character is developed, she's really just kind of an irritating and unlikable Mary Sue. Other characters are woefully underdeveloped. The dialogue is very unnatural. There are multiple scenes where Kaveri and her friends are discussing the independence movement and it feels so stilted and contrived, which makes it hard to take their feelings seriously. And this is something that deserves seriousness and interest from readers...so it's frustrating that it's so unnatural and weird.
That is part of my issue with this book (and to the extent I remember the others, I believe I had similar issues with those...why didn't I leave reviews???). I don't know what this book is trying to be, but the more serious themes the author is delving into deserve better writing and more seriousness than what they have been given here. I don't think that readers who are less familiar with the history are going to understand enough of what is going on through the writing in this book to understand or sympathize with what the characters are discussing because the dialogue is so shallow and weird, scenes are so unbelievable, and the characters - including the villain - are so underdeveloped.
I feel bad about this, because I love Indian historical fiction - particularly from this time period. I'm fascinated by it and love reading about women in this period and place coming into their own, embracing the independence movement, and finding their own footing in an culture that doesn't make it easy for women. I also really love historical mysteries. I want to love this book. I just don't.
Also, gold is heavier than iron and a solid gold dumbbell would be more difficult to move than an iron dumbbell...a character as intelligent as Kaveri is supposed to be should know that.
Part of my struggle is that I don't know if this book and series know what they want to be. Is it a cozy mystery or a serious historical fiction analysis of life in colonial India that also happens to have an amateur female detective? Whichever it's trying to be, I don't think it does well in either genre. There are a lot of serious themes that the author seems to be trying to explore - the experiences of women of women and people of different caste in India who are facing their own unique challenges while also living under the yoke of British imperialism, some of whom are also participating to varying degrees in the independence movement. And of course there are the mysteries and Kaveri's desire to live a more intellectual life, which apparently is only available to her through her detective hobby. And the dynamics of arranged marriage and, fortunately for Kaveri, falling in love. And her female friendships that are able to move beyond caste and social status, so she can develop and maintain friendships with society women, business women, and working women who might be servants or former prostitutes.
All of this could be very interesting, but...Kaveri is not a serious character. She's annoying, immature, and makes a lot of poor choices. To the extent that her character is developed, she's really just kind of an irritating and unlikable Mary Sue. Other characters are woefully underdeveloped. The dialogue is very unnatural. There are multiple scenes where Kaveri and her friends are discussing the independence movement and it feels so stilted and contrived, which makes it hard to take their feelings seriously. And this is something that deserves seriousness and interest from readers...so it's frustrating that it's so unnatural and weird.
That is part of my issue with this book (and to the extent I remember the others, I believe I had similar issues with those...why didn't I leave reviews???). I don't know what this book is trying to be, but the more serious themes the author is delving into deserve better writing and more seriousness than what they have been given here. I don't think that readers who are less familiar with the history are going to understand enough of what is going on through the writing in this book to understand or sympathize with what the characters are discussing because the dialogue is so shallow and weird, scenes are so unbelievable, and the characters - including the villain - are so underdeveloped.
I feel bad about this, because I love Indian historical fiction - particularly from this time period. I'm fascinated by it and love reading about women in this period and place coming into their own, embracing the independence movement, and finding their own footing in an culture that doesn't make it easy for women. I also really love historical mysteries. I want to love this book. I just don't.
Also, gold is heavier than iron and a solid gold dumbbell would be more difficult to move than an iron dumbbell...a character as intelligent as Kaveri is supposed to be should know that.
July 2, 2024
Name : A Nest Of Vipers
Author : Harini Nagendra
Genre : Historical Murder Mystery
My 💭:
[02/07/24 10.43PM]
Okay, so this is officially cosiest murder mystery that I have ever read! All because of sweetest Kaveri, our lead lady detective of the book 🕵️♀️
Those of you who have already read the other books from The Bangalore Detectives Club, already know Kaveri and need no introductions. But those of you don't, let me introduce you to one of the coolest fictional girl I have ever read! She is a newly married woman to an equally lovable husband Ramu, who's a doctor. The twist is that she is a lady detective as well! The way she handles her housewife duties and detective work while parallely fighting the injustice of society in 1920s Bangalore, especially for women's rights, I am always left inspired by her over and over again! I never thought a fictional character will give me this much insight into a new marriage and how to deal with so many changes at that time. Most importantly, she teaches me how to deal with so many different people in life, with such good manners! Trust me, you will love her!
The story is set in 1920s Bangalore and I absolutely applaud the author for bringing out that era to us so perfectly! At that time, the anti British movements had started and India was just peeking towards the path of Independence, under the leadership of Gandhiji, Netaji and others. All of those freedom fighters' names in such real scenarios gave me goosebumps! And and and the story has payed such beautiful homage to Bengali 'jadoogars' or magicians! It took me back to my childhood days when my parents took me to watch magic shows by P.C.Sarkar!
The mystery was really good and it peaked its suspense factor in the middle. Since this is a cosy historical murder mystery, I didn't expect a fast pace, but it was considerably so and as result, I ended up binge reading it in one sitting 🙈. The ending twist wasn't too much shocking in the murder mystery context, but it was in a context that left me in awe! Also, much much credit goes to Kaveri's intelligence and her inquisitive nature that made me more interested in the story.
Reading historical books set in pre-independence India honestly makes my blood boil against the Britishers. Such exploiters! 😡
P.S. I absolutely love how Kaveri starts solving Algebra problems to destress. Love Maths girlies like me 🤓!
Author : Harini Nagendra
Genre : Historical Murder Mystery
My 💭:
[02/07/24 10.43PM]
Okay, so this is officially cosiest murder mystery that I have ever read! All because of sweetest Kaveri, our lead lady detective of the book 🕵️♀️
Those of you who have already read the other books from The Bangalore Detectives Club, already know Kaveri and need no introductions. But those of you don't, let me introduce you to one of the coolest fictional girl I have ever read! She is a newly married woman to an equally lovable husband Ramu, who's a doctor. The twist is that she is a lady detective as well! The way she handles her housewife duties and detective work while parallely fighting the injustice of society in 1920s Bangalore, especially for women's rights, I am always left inspired by her over and over again! I never thought a fictional character will give me this much insight into a new marriage and how to deal with so many changes at that time. Most importantly, she teaches me how to deal with so many different people in life, with such good manners! Trust me, you will love her!
The story is set in 1920s Bangalore and I absolutely applaud the author for bringing out that era to us so perfectly! At that time, the anti British movements had started and India was just peeking towards the path of Independence, under the leadership of Gandhiji, Netaji and others. All of those freedom fighters' names in such real scenarios gave me goosebumps! And and and the story has payed such beautiful homage to Bengali 'jadoogars' or magicians! It took me back to my childhood days when my parents took me to watch magic shows by P.C.Sarkar!
The mystery was really good and it peaked its suspense factor in the middle. Since this is a cosy historical murder mystery, I didn't expect a fast pace, but it was considerably so and as result, I ended up binge reading it in one sitting 🙈. The ending twist wasn't too much shocking in the murder mystery context, but it was in a context that left me in awe! Also, much much credit goes to Kaveri's intelligence and her inquisitive nature that made me more interested in the story.
Reading historical books set in pre-independence India honestly makes my blood boil against the Britishers. Such exploiters! 😡
P.S. I absolutely love how Kaveri starts solving Algebra problems to destress. Love Maths girlies like me 🤓!
July 11, 2024
Colonial era, simpler and slower times and a amateur yet intelligent detective has made this series likable for me.
I found the first two books of this series at a library and was hooked to them. Although I didn’t enjoy the second as much as the first, the setting I described above and writing style is what draws me to the third installment.
Kaveri has established herself as a renowned detective in Bangalore. She is simultaneously studying for her math classes apart from teaching women to read at her “Bangalore Detective Club”.
Its 1922, freedom struggle is at its peak in British India. Prince of Wales is visiting and response hasn’t been great in other parts of India, hence efforts are being made to make it smooth visit when he visits Bangalore. In a totally unrelated case, a surprise and open theft at a magic show followed by the disappearance of the main magician draws Kaveri into the depths of magic world, freedom struggle and possibly the visit of Prince of Wales.
The summary of the novel begins with the mention of the visit of Prince of Wales, so my assumption was that the entire book would be devoted to the same, yet story begins much later. This could have been avoided in summary since it gives impression that I had. Writing style is just as good as the first novel, continuity of the lives of the main characters seems fluid. In every book, author also provides glossary of the local language words used and recipes at the end of the book which was novel for me and I enjoy reading them as well.
I found the first two books of this series at a library and was hooked to them. Although I didn’t enjoy the second as much as the first, the setting I described above and writing style is what draws me to the third installment.
Kaveri has established herself as a renowned detective in Bangalore. She is simultaneously studying for her math classes apart from teaching women to read at her “Bangalore Detective Club”.
Its 1922, freedom struggle is at its peak in British India. Prince of Wales is visiting and response hasn’t been great in other parts of India, hence efforts are being made to make it smooth visit when he visits Bangalore. In a totally unrelated case, a surprise and open theft at a magic show followed by the disappearance of the main magician draws Kaveri into the depths of magic world, freedom struggle and possibly the visit of Prince of Wales.
The summary of the novel begins with the mention of the visit of Prince of Wales, so my assumption was that the entire book would be devoted to the same, yet story begins much later. This could have been avoided in summary since it gives impression that I had. Writing style is just as good as the first novel, continuity of the lives of the main characters seems fluid. In every book, author also provides glossary of the local language words used and recipes at the end of the book which was novel for me and I enjoy reading them as well.
August 17, 2025
This series is so fun! I loved this book just as much as the others. The settings are amazing, the characters are loveable, and the mystery was really captivating. I loved all of the plot twists and the surprise at the ending. I’m a huge fan of cozy mysteries and the found family trope, so this series is one that I will definitely keep reading!
June 5, 2024
Crime, a circus and Indian independence. Interesting and includes varied social backgrounds.
June 28, 2024
It was good for a third installment, but I'm worried that the excellence of the read before this one is colouring my opinion
May 11, 2024
Great blend of mystery & historical fiction!
October 15, 2024
3.5. Really loved the first two in the series but this one fell a little flat for me, sadly. Still worth a read, but the depth and character development were just not there for me compared to her previous ones
June 23, 2024
The book “A Nest of Vipers” written by Harini Nagendra ushers individuals into the dynamic weave of life in Bangalore during the 1920s, with British colonization having its impacts on everyday experiences. In this setting, one is introduced to Kaveri Murthy, a feisty lady detective whose abilities are tested during a royal tour and an instance of vanishing at the Bangalore circus.
Author has expertly integrated history fiction, mystery, and suspense in the novel thus incorporating readers into social clashes against personal ambition in another era and place. The view we get from Kaveri’s observation is that of bustling Bangalore; a city full of sights, sounds, and smells ranging from opulent British palaces to dusty streets where many poor people live upon their livelihoods.
The centre of this tale revolves around Kaveri – a protagonist who is as smart as she is determined; who has guts while being sympathetic and sincere. Durin her investigation’s complexity Kaveri will confront threats which might compromise her security or result from betrayal by even those she would have never suspected culminating into an interesting character that readers will cherish until the last page.
The narrative is enriched by the supporting cast of characters, ranging from the mysterious Inspector Ismail to the larger-than-life characters that populate the Bangalore circus. Each character stands out distinct as a piece of art with their motives and hidden secrets that keep readers guessing till the end.
Author’s writing is graceful and expressive, capturing all of 1920s Bangalore in its vibrant descriptions and lyrical language. In this author’s well-honed style, the city comes alive through his words: whether it be watching a circus sparkle or moving through dark alleys fraught with danger.
Themes such as power, privilege and justice are explored with subtlety by Nagendra as the plot twists and turns towards its thrilling climax that will leave readers on edge. “A Nest of Vipers”, for example, does not only provide an entertaining mystery; it also probes deeply into human life within an engrossing historical period.
All-in-all, “A Nest of Vipers” is an absorbing read transporting one back to 1920s India. Anyone fascinated by either mysteries or historical fiction will enjoy this captivatingly told story. Every page in this book shines with Harini Nagendra’s storytelling mastery hence it is a must-read for anyone who seeks to get away into literature.
Author has expertly integrated history fiction, mystery, and suspense in the novel thus incorporating readers into social clashes against personal ambition in another era and place. The view we get from Kaveri’s observation is that of bustling Bangalore; a city full of sights, sounds, and smells ranging from opulent British palaces to dusty streets where many poor people live upon their livelihoods.
The centre of this tale revolves around Kaveri – a protagonist who is as smart as she is determined; who has guts while being sympathetic and sincere. Durin her investigation’s complexity Kaveri will confront threats which might compromise her security or result from betrayal by even those she would have never suspected culminating into an interesting character that readers will cherish until the last page.
The narrative is enriched by the supporting cast of characters, ranging from the mysterious Inspector Ismail to the larger-than-life characters that populate the Bangalore circus. Each character stands out distinct as a piece of art with their motives and hidden secrets that keep readers guessing till the end.
Author’s writing is graceful and expressive, capturing all of 1920s Bangalore in its vibrant descriptions and lyrical language. In this author’s well-honed style, the city comes alive through his words: whether it be watching a circus sparkle or moving through dark alleys fraught with danger.
Themes such as power, privilege and justice are explored with subtlety by Nagendra as the plot twists and turns towards its thrilling climax that will leave readers on edge. “A Nest of Vipers”, for example, does not only provide an entertaining mystery; it also probes deeply into human life within an engrossing historical period.
All-in-all, “A Nest of Vipers” is an absorbing read transporting one back to 1920s India. Anyone fascinated by either mysteries or historical fiction will enjoy this captivatingly told story. Every page in this book shines with Harini Nagendra’s storytelling mastery hence it is a must-read for anyone who seeks to get away into literature.
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August 14, 2024My article in The Historical Novels Review:
https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...
https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...
July 5, 2024
Harini Nagendra is a wonderful Indian author. Her series set in Colonial Bangalore is great. The woman detective Kaveri is interesting along with her company of friends and partners as she solves the mysteries that she encounters. It also provides the view from an Indian perspective of the British rulers.
June 27, 2024
My AudioFile review:
A NEST OF VIPERS
Bangalore Detectives Club, Book 3
**Earphones Award Winner
by Harini Nagendra | Read by Soneela Nankani
Mystery & Suspense • 11 hrs. • Unabridged • © 2024
AudioFile Golden Voice Soneela Nankani immerses listeners in 1920s India on the eve of a visit from Edward, Prince of Wales. This third installment in the Bangalore Detectives Club series is rife with intrigue, politics, and the fight for autonomy--for women, for the lower classes, and for India itself. Nankani's brisk, distinctly voiced performance is riveting as she expertly distinguishes among the large cast of characters, who range from aristocratic members of the British raj to highborn members of India's upper classes to circus performers and murderous brigands. Nankani is particularly effective as Kaveri Murthy, mathematician, feminist, and intrepid organizer of the amateur detectives club. The story is a bit confusing if you've not read the first two installments but is worth the effort. S.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2024]
Trade Ed. • Tantor Media • 2024
DD ISBN 9798855540444 $19.99
A NEST OF VIPERS
Bangalore Detectives Club, Book 3
**Earphones Award Winner
by Harini Nagendra | Read by Soneela Nankani
Mystery & Suspense • 11 hrs. • Unabridged • © 2024
AudioFile Golden Voice Soneela Nankani immerses listeners in 1920s India on the eve of a visit from Edward, Prince of Wales. This third installment in the Bangalore Detectives Club series is rife with intrigue, politics, and the fight for autonomy--for women, for the lower classes, and for India itself. Nankani's brisk, distinctly voiced performance is riveting as she expertly distinguishes among the large cast of characters, who range from aristocratic members of the British raj to highborn members of India's upper classes to circus performers and murderous brigands. Nankani is particularly effective as Kaveri Murthy, mathematician, feminist, and intrepid organizer of the amateur detectives club. The story is a bit confusing if you've not read the first two installments but is worth the effort. S.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2024]
Trade Ed. • Tantor Media • 2024
DD ISBN 9798855540444 $19.99
June 15, 2024
My favorite so far! Loved the complexity and cast of characters, as well as all the interweaving and imagining of such a crucial time in history. Accomplishing all that while keeping the focus firmly on Kaveri kept this engaging and personal too - an unusual and much appreciated skill.
June 24, 2024
Ready for book #4! I absolutely love this series. I love how Ramu supports Kavari in a time where women were supposed to be small and meek. Kavari is allowed to chase all her dreams plus some!
December 29, 2024
The 3rd book in the series doesn't disappoint. Of course, there's an interesting mystery to be solved, but I loved all the side quests the book takes us on: The struggle for independence, feminism within the time, women's empowerment, the nod to the class and caste distinction in society, and so much more.
Kaveri's character development is clear...she's being more careful with her adventures and taking precautions (as she should). And her relationship with her mother-in-law has improved drastically as well. Ramu is more of a background figure supporting her. I like that it is the women taking the lead and initiative here.
Loved the backstory of the real-life characters that inspired some of the book characters, and the homemade beauty secrets listed at the end.
Read my review here: Book review
Kaveri's character development is clear...she's being more careful with her adventures and taking precautions (as she should). And her relationship with her mother-in-law has improved drastically as well. Ramu is more of a background figure supporting her. I like that it is the women taking the lead and initiative here.
Loved the backstory of the real-life characters that inspired some of the book characters, and the homemade beauty secrets listed at the end.
Read my review here: Book review
May 23, 2024
I love this series!! The mystery in this one isn’t my favorite of the three books currently out, but the relationships and progression of their personal lives is my favorite of the series! I love these long dead fictional people more than I can say!
Ramu is still the absolute best and still gives off the most epic Gilbert Blythe vibes. Honestly I’d marry him!! Kevari is so stubborn and yet so kind… she gets a little more reckless than I’d have liked since I figured out what was going on in the very beginning, but overall just loved her.
Anyways if you’re looking for a complex mystery this isn’t for you. If you’re looking for something fun, chaotic, cozy, and full of colorful/lovable characters… this is 1,000% for you!!!
Ramu is still the absolute best and still gives off the most epic Gilbert Blythe vibes. Honestly I’d marry him!! Kevari is so stubborn and yet so kind… she gets a little more reckless than I’d have liked since I figured out what was going on in the very beginning, but overall just loved her.
Anyways if you’re looking for a complex mystery this isn’t for you. If you’re looking for something fun, chaotic, cozy, and full of colorful/lovable characters… this is 1,000% for you!!!
May 22, 2024
I really enjoyed the previous two in this series and the third one was amazing as well. This case was a lot more complicated than the other two books and every enjoyable. It was difficult to guess the culprit till the very end. Perfect book for hysterical mystery lovers. Huge fan of Kaveri, to see a woman do so much in the time when women didn’t have much power is absolutely amazing.
May 30, 2024
Another fabulous read
Love this series - its like traveling back in time. Characters are strong and well written. Setting is amazing, can smell and feel the heat in Bangalore summer. Anxiously awaiting next mystery
Love this series - its like traveling back in time. Characters are strong and well written. Setting is amazing, can smell and feel the heat in Bangalore summer. Anxiously awaiting next mystery
May 15, 2024
Kaveri is badass as usual
April 15, 2024
I am a huge fan of this fledgling series set in 1920’s Bangalore. The books are set around the same time at Sujata Massey’s Perveen Mistry books, but in a different part of India. However, all the parts of India were experiencing the same thing: a desire for independence from their British overlords. Massey has a book about the Prince of Wales visit to then colonial India, The Bombay Prince, and this is Negendra’s book about that same visit. Gandi was calling for peaceful protests (much like Martin Luther King) and throughout India there were welcomes for the Prince with an undercurrent of revolution. India did not actually gain independence until 1947, so this is a story of a nascent movement, brought out of the shadows by the visit of a British royal.
Negendra opens her novel with a luscious visit to a circus – she’s excellent at setting and populating a scene and bringing it fully to life. It’s one of the things I love most about these books. Our heroine, Kaveri Murthy, and her handsome doctor husband, Ramu, have received free tickets and are sitting toward the front of the house next to a British doctor and his sister and they’ve brought along their friend Anandi (met in previous books). The headliner is a magician who actually asks to meet the Murthys before the performance – he’s heard of Kaveri’s “detective club” and seems interested in her help.
The magician is the main attraction, and when he and his son take the stage, chaos ensues halfway through the performance, with a gang of masked men surging through the crowd, robbing the rich people in the front rows. The magician disappears, leaving his son behind, and the brutal ex husband of their beloved Anandi is discovered dead in the resulting confusion, with Anandi the apparent murderer. Kaveri’s task through this book is twofold: reuniting the magician’s son with his father and proving Anandi’s innocence.
Troublingly, Anandi has turned cold toward Kaveri and then vanishes; and Kaveri’s former police ally, Inspector Ismail, has turned similarly cold toward her. In the past, he had welcomed her help; now, he will hardly speak to her. In the last book Kaveri and her mother in-law made peace with one another; in this book, her mother in law in frequently absent, forcing Kaveri to consider how she might spend her time if not with her studies or with her mother in law. Her detective club meetings – populated by women she’s met through her work – are her saving grace.
In each novel, Kaveri grows a little bit as a person, and the strong binding thread is the love she and Ramu have for one another. While he worries about her, he still allows her the freedom to make her own choices about how she’ll proceed. So while she’s handicapped by the loss of Ismail’s support and Anandi’s friendship, she still moves forward, helping the magician’s young son and attempting to discover the true killer of Anandi’s husband.
The Bangalore setting is textured and the other thread of this novel – the thread of the growing independence movement – is subtly tied into the plot in an extremely nuanced manner. Nagendra manages to capture a spectrum of complicated feelings on the part of the people she’s portraying in the novel. There’s a thought that a riot or violence accompanying the prince’s visit will make things worse for the movement and set it back, so the other tension involves whether violence will indeed break out before the end of the novel.
Like Elizabeth Peters and Dorothy Gilman before her, Nagendra is truly a writer not just of detective stories but of adventure stories, stories that also embrace and celebrate a culture. Unlike Peters and Gilman she is writing about her own culture, which makes it a very resonant reading experience. However, I’m certain that Amelia Peabody, Mrs. Pollifax and young Kaveri Murthy would happily enjoy one another’s company. This is an utterly delightful series.
Negendra opens her novel with a luscious visit to a circus – she’s excellent at setting and populating a scene and bringing it fully to life. It’s one of the things I love most about these books. Our heroine, Kaveri Murthy, and her handsome doctor husband, Ramu, have received free tickets and are sitting toward the front of the house next to a British doctor and his sister and they’ve brought along their friend Anandi (met in previous books). The headliner is a magician who actually asks to meet the Murthys before the performance – he’s heard of Kaveri’s “detective club” and seems interested in her help.
The magician is the main attraction, and when he and his son take the stage, chaos ensues halfway through the performance, with a gang of masked men surging through the crowd, robbing the rich people in the front rows. The magician disappears, leaving his son behind, and the brutal ex husband of their beloved Anandi is discovered dead in the resulting confusion, with Anandi the apparent murderer. Kaveri’s task through this book is twofold: reuniting the magician’s son with his father and proving Anandi’s innocence.
Troublingly, Anandi has turned cold toward Kaveri and then vanishes; and Kaveri’s former police ally, Inspector Ismail, has turned similarly cold toward her. In the past, he had welcomed her help; now, he will hardly speak to her. In the last book Kaveri and her mother in-law made peace with one another; in this book, her mother in law in frequently absent, forcing Kaveri to consider how she might spend her time if not with her studies or with her mother in law. Her detective club meetings – populated by women she’s met through her work – are her saving grace.
In each novel, Kaveri grows a little bit as a person, and the strong binding thread is the love she and Ramu have for one another. While he worries about her, he still allows her the freedom to make her own choices about how she’ll proceed. So while she’s handicapped by the loss of Ismail’s support and Anandi’s friendship, she still moves forward, helping the magician’s young son and attempting to discover the true killer of Anandi’s husband.
The Bangalore setting is textured and the other thread of this novel – the thread of the growing independence movement – is subtly tied into the plot in an extremely nuanced manner. Nagendra manages to capture a spectrum of complicated feelings on the part of the people she’s portraying in the novel. There’s a thought that a riot or violence accompanying the prince’s visit will make things worse for the movement and set it back, so the other tension involves whether violence will indeed break out before the end of the novel.
Like Elizabeth Peters and Dorothy Gilman before her, Nagendra is truly a writer not just of detective stories but of adventure stories, stories that also embrace and celebrate a culture. Unlike Peters and Gilman she is writing about her own culture, which makes it a very resonant reading experience. However, I’m certain that Amelia Peabody, Mrs. Pollifax and young Kaveri Murthy would happily enjoy one another’s company. This is an utterly delightful series.
December 11, 2024
This book is the 3rd installment of the Bangalore Detectives Club series. It takes place during the time of Prince Edward of England's visit to Bangalore & Mysore India in 1922. Kaveri and her husband Ramu become tangled in a plot that could endanger the life of the visiting Prince.
Likes:
-Explore history of the time when India is fighting for independence
-Learn about Indian culture during the time period the story is set in
-Characters are like-able. Kaveri & Ramu's relationship is so cute. I like that Kaveri wants to help everyone & doesn't stick to the caste boundaries. Ramu is progressive in his relationship with Kaveri & the other women in his life. He doesn't try to control Kaveri, but encourages her dreams and ideas.
-A welcome plot twist at the end of the story
Dislikes:
-Ramu acts out of character by trying to get Kaveri to not investigate
-Plot wasn't as enjoyable as the previous books
Overall, this is a decent entry in the series. I felt bad for Kaveri in this story because it seemed like everyone was being hard on her. Lots of twists & red herrings to keep you guessing. If you like the Perveen Mistry series by Sujata Massey The Widows of Malabar Hill or the Captain Jim & Lady Diana series by Nev March Murder in Old Bombay, you'll enjoy this series.
Thanks for reading this review. Check out my YouTube channel @TriceyReads for book recommendations & book reviews.
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Likes:
-Explore history of the time when India is fighting for independence
-Learn about Indian culture during the time period the story is set in
-Characters are like-able. Kaveri & Ramu's relationship is so cute. I like that Kaveri wants to help everyone & doesn't stick to the caste boundaries. Ramu is progressive in his relationship with Kaveri & the other women in his life. He doesn't try to control Kaveri, but encourages her dreams and ideas.
-A welcome plot twist at the end of the story
Dislikes:
-Ramu acts out of character by trying to get Kaveri to not investigate
-Plot wasn't as enjoyable as the previous books
Overall, this is a decent entry in the series. I felt bad for Kaveri in this story because it seemed like everyone was being hard on her. Lots of twists & red herrings to keep you guessing. If you like the Perveen Mistry series by Sujata Massey The Widows of Malabar Hill or the Captain Jim & Lady Diana series by Nev March Murder in Old Bombay, you'll enjoy this series.
Thanks for reading this review. Check out my YouTube channel @TriceyReads for book recommendations & book reviews.
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