The Mimosa Tree Mystery (Su Lin 4)

Longlisted for the CWA Historical Dagger

“Simply glorious. Every nook and cranny of 1930s Singapore is brought richly to life.” — Catriona McPherson
“Charming.” — Rhys Bowen
“One of the most likeable heroines in modern literature.” — Scotsman

In Japanese-occupied Singapore, Mirza, a secretive neighbor of the Chens, is notorious for his collaboration and blackmail activities. When Mirza is found murdered in his garden, clutching a mimosa branch, the list of suspects includes local residents, Japanese officials, and even his own daughters.

Among those detained by the Japanese in retaliation is Su Lin’s Uncle Chen. Hideki Tagawa, a former spy who was expelled by the police officer Le Froy and now holds significant influence in the new regime, offers Su Lin a grim bargain: her uncle's life in exchange for her services. Su Lin's fluency in languages and her understanding of local dynamics are to be used to identify the true murderer.

As Su Lin delves into the investigation, she quickly realizes that Hideki has hidden motives. The people around her—friends, foes, and even the victim—are not as they seem. The stakes extend beyond a single life; Su Lin must uncover the truth behind Mirza's death before Le Froy and other former colleagues, currently detained or working with the resistance, face dire repercussions from Mirza’s final secret.

Praise for Ovidia Yu:

"One of Singapore’s finest living authors." — South China Morning Post
"Chen Su Lin is a true gem. Her slyly witty voice and admirable, sometimes heartbreaking, practicality make her the most beguiling narrator heroine I’ve encountered in a long while." — Catriona McPherson
"Charming and fascinating with a great authentic feel. Ovidia Yu’s teenage Chinese sleuth provides a unique insight into a different culture and time. This book exemplifies why I love historical novels." — Rhys Bowen
"A wonderful detective novel... introducing one of the most likeable heroines in modern literature, and it deserves a spot on everyone’s Must Read list." — Scotsman
"Unassuming and brilliantly observant." — South China Morning Post

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