Harini Nagendra’s ‘Murder under a Red Moon’ has all the ingredients for a perfect murder mystery – high stakes case, an adorable protagonist, beyond fascinating cultural context and fascinating character dynamics. Following Kaveri, a young 19-year-old amateur detective as she slowly unravels the murder of an acclaimed businessman, the plot centers around a complicated case of embezzlement streaked with the complexities of familial imbalances and social expectancies.
Kaveri’s disapproving mother-in-law’s cousin Shanthi calls for her help when she suspects her son-in-law to be embezzling money from her husband Mr. Sharma’s business, but tensions rise quickly as her husband is murdered before the detective gets a chance to meet him. As Chitra, her displeased step daughter and a suspicious Swami enter the picture, it is up to Kaveri and her ‘women’s club’ to find out the killer.
One of the most prominent strengths of the book is its characterization – the various players of the dangerous game of solving the murder are distinct and easy to resonate with. Whether it is the kind and sharp Mala or the respected Mrs. Reddy, the book features a wide array of fascinating characters that have depth and profundity. Representing the resilience of Anandi, a victim of domestic abuse, or the commitment of Ismail, a dedicated police officer, the multifaceted nature of the characters truly shines as a strong point of the book. Nagendra also writes character dynamics with a flair – whether it is the unspoken tension or words of comfort exchanged between Kaveri and her mother-in-law, or the adorable romance between her and her supportive husband Ramu.
Further, Nagendra truly sets the scene with her vivid imagery, whether it is visual or olfactory. Colourful saris, tempting South Indian dishes and every landscape is described with care and detail that makes readers feel immersed within each moment.
The fast pace of the book also ensures engagement and builds tension, but is also one of the reasons the ‘mystery’ of the book seems to fall short. Maybe this reader theorizes too much, but the plot seems to be built too quickly but with little attention paid to its depth. The big reveal seems a little obvious to the readers – which may have been done partly on purpose, but feels too apparent to be a true ‘unraveling’.
The book also contains essential social commentary at various points that is important and takes a clear political stand. It brings the serious political tensions of the perilous colonial period to the forefront, with a special focus on women and their issues at the time.
Its crucial political stance and prominent critique on gender, class and caste differences as well as recognition of colonialism adds a layer of depth to its story. Further, this places the social norms and expectancies from women in the spotlight. Through its focus on how women are expected to fit a certain framework society decides for them on the basis of their economic or social status, like these factors are criteria women are created to fill, it highlights the importance of collective social change. The representation of these issues is a reflection of insightful beliefs and values, addresses real-world issues, challenges perspectives and advocates for awareness.
With its brilliant characterization, vibrant imagery and resonant social criticism, ‘Murder under a Red Moon’ is an enjoyable and engrossing murder mystery. A true peek into mystical and old-timey Bangalore, it is written with a deep love for the city, a gift for painting a picture and a penchant for suspense!