Ooh this book. I knew from the first chapter that I was going to love this book and it absolutely captivated me. Kausar Aunty is my favorite new sleuth; she is complex and filled with love and compassion and fire and grief.  I love how real she was; flaws and all; after everything that happened in her life. I love how she steps up to help her daughter, but also shares with the reader her real feelings about so many things even if they go against what is expected. She is ready to risk it all to save her family and the way she picks up on things is so savvy. I love the different layers to this story and how the past comes to play in subtle ways during the present mystery.  I was shocked by the twists at the end. It definitely had cozy mystery vibes with some darker themes. I also loved learning more small bits about Kausar Aunty's culture.

I hope this series continues!

Thanks to the publisher for the ARC; my thoughts and review are my own.