Smoke and Ashes by Abir Mukherjee Book Review

Released: 7th June 2018 Genre: Historical, Crime Number of Pages: 327 Settled into what are by far his most popular set of books, Abir Mukherjee continues with Smoke and Ashes, the third instalment in the Sam Wyndham series. Picking up from where “A Necessary Evil” left off, Captain Sam Wyndham and his partner Seargent Bannerjee are having to contend with a rising tide of peaceful resistance against the British colonisers. In amongst the upheaval, a trail of grisly murders leads the skilled captain down a dangerous path, something made worse by his recent opium addiction. From the get-go, there’s a greater sense of urgency than its predecessor and as the story moves along, the criminal work at play reveals greater connections to Sam’s past experiences in World War One. The novel’s opening also speaks volumes as the captain avoids the prying eyes of the law around a set of drug dens. Like previous entries, Smoke and Ashes boasts a very well-presented image of 1920s Calcutta, this time flanked by a helping of unease that sets the story apart. With a greater focus on cultural elements, a lot of intrigue surrounds the protests and their growing animosity towards occupation. By making this a constant presence, the central investigation at hand is made up of more twists and turns. There’s only one element I felt was lacking. The protagonist’s opium addiction does generate tension for the first half of the story and is written to feel toxic and embarrassing for the leading man, but once things really heat up, it ends up being put to the side and addressed more infrequently. This could have added an extra dramatic element to the climax, but as it stands, you’ll still be very much invested in the proceedings. Recommended? YES: With its upped stakes and greater historical trappings, Smoke and Ashes was a very enjoyable read that easily matches the original “A Rising Man”. Not only is the tension running high, you’re also left intrigued by the events in India of the time. This historical crime series continues in an engaging way.