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Detective Aunty Investigates #1
Detective Aunty: A Novel
“I’ll read anything Uzma Jalaluddin writes.”—
New York Times
bestselling author Kate Quinn
“I am such a fan.”— New York Times bestselling author Emily Henry
When her grown daughter is suspected of murder, a charming and tenacious widow digs into the case to unmask the real killer in this twisty, page-turning whodunnit—the first book in a cozy new detective series from the acclaimed author of Ayesha at Last.
After her husband’s unexpected death eighteen months ago, Kausar Khan never thought she’d receive another phone call as heartbreaking—until her thirty-something daughter, Sana, phones to say that she's been arrested for killing the unpopular landlord of her clothing boutique. Determined to help her child, Kausar heads to Toronto for the first time in nearly twenty years.
Returning to the Golden Crescent suburb where she raised her children and where her daughter still lives, Kausar finds that the thriving neighborhood she remembered has changed. The murder of Sana’s landlord is only the latest in a wave of local crimes which have gone unsolved.
And the facts of the case are Sana found the man dead in her shop at a suspiciously early hour, with a dagger from her windowfront display plunged in his chest. And Kausar—a woman with a keen sense of observation and deep wisdom honed by her years—senses there’s more to the story than her daughter is telling.
With the help of some old friends and her plucky teenage granddaughter, Kausar digs into the investigation to uncover the truth. Because who better to pry answers from unwilling suspects than a meddlesome aunty? But even Kausar can’t predict the secrets, lies, and betrayals she finds along the way…
“I am such a fan.”— New York Times bestselling author Emily Henry
When her grown daughter is suspected of murder, a charming and tenacious widow digs into the case to unmask the real killer in this twisty, page-turning whodunnit—the first book in a cozy new detective series from the acclaimed author of Ayesha at Last.
After her husband’s unexpected death eighteen months ago, Kausar Khan never thought she’d receive another phone call as heartbreaking—until her thirty-something daughter, Sana, phones to say that she's been arrested for killing the unpopular landlord of her clothing boutique. Determined to help her child, Kausar heads to Toronto for the first time in nearly twenty years.
Returning to the Golden Crescent suburb where she raised her children and where her daughter still lives, Kausar finds that the thriving neighborhood she remembered has changed. The murder of Sana’s landlord is only the latest in a wave of local crimes which have gone unsolved.
And the facts of the case are Sana found the man dead in her shop at a suspiciously early hour, with a dagger from her windowfront display plunged in his chest. And Kausar—a woman with a keen sense of observation and deep wisdom honed by her years—senses there’s more to the story than her daughter is telling.
With the help of some old friends and her plucky teenage granddaughter, Kausar digs into the investigation to uncover the truth. Because who better to pry answers from unwilling suspects than a meddlesome aunty? But even Kausar can’t predict the secrets, lies, and betrayals she finds along the way…
Audible Audio
First published May 6, 2025
About the author
Uzma Jalaluddin
9 books2,876 followersI write funny, nuanced stories about Muslims, South Asians, Canadians, people. MUCH ADO ABOUT NADA (June 2023), THREE HOLIDAYS AND A WEDDING (Sept 2023), HANA KHAN CARRIES ON (2021) and AYESHA AT LAST (2019). Find out more at www.uzmajalaluddin.com and thanks for visiting!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,498 reviews
April 12, 2025
Yipee! I just found out there is a second book coming out on May 5th!!!
If I could, I would give this book a ten-star rating, but alas, I can not do that here. Just let it be known that I would have! LOL! I'm not going to bore you with a recap of this book; it is not necessary, nor could I give you one without accidentally giving something away. Let's just say that there is a murder which seems to be quickly solved, but really isn't, and since Kausar's daughter appears to be the prime suspect, Kausar comes back to Toronto to help her daughter and family.
This was an all-out thrilling read, twisty, turny, with a murderer that I never saw coming. I would be surprised if almost nobody could figure it out. Then again, maybe I'm just lacking in my detective skills!
What I loved most about this book is that it was so much more than just a murder mystery; it was also a family drama on several levels. I was able to learn a lot about Asian-Indian culture (food, clothing, death rites, etc.), and since this story takes place in Canada, I learned some things about my brothers in the North that I never knew.
There are actually several mysteries going on at the same time in this book, and I wonder if the author is going to use that loose end for her next book, and there darned well better be a next book ---or maybe a series! I love books about middle-aged women and how they deal with life. And did I mention that there might be a romance coming too?
I must tell you that, based on this one book, I just went and bought two more by this author. I hope I love them as much as I did this one!
*ARC supplied by Harper Perennial/HarperCollins Publishers, the author, and NetGalley.
If I could, I would give this book a ten-star rating, but alas, I can not do that here. Just let it be known that I would have! LOL! I'm not going to bore you with a recap of this book; it is not necessary, nor could I give you one without accidentally giving something away. Let's just say that there is a murder which seems to be quickly solved, but really isn't, and since Kausar's daughter appears to be the prime suspect, Kausar comes back to Toronto to help her daughter and family.
This was an all-out thrilling read, twisty, turny, with a murderer that I never saw coming. I would be surprised if almost nobody could figure it out. Then again, maybe I'm just lacking in my detective skills!
What I loved most about this book is that it was so much more than just a murder mystery; it was also a family drama on several levels. I was able to learn a lot about Asian-Indian culture (food, clothing, death rites, etc.), and since this story takes place in Canada, I learned some things about my brothers in the North that I never knew.
There are actually several mysteries going on at the same time in this book, and I wonder if the author is going to use that loose end for her next book, and there darned well better be a next book ---or maybe a series! I love books about middle-aged women and how they deal with life. And did I mention that there might be a romance coming too?
I must tell you that, based on this one book, I just went and bought two more by this author. I hope I love them as much as I did this one!
*ARC supplied by Harper Perennial/HarperCollins Publishers, the author, and NetGalley.
March 28, 2025
I adored this - it weaves together that perfect mix of mystery, community heart, and secrets, all with wit and warmth. Uzma Jalaluddin puts her finger on the pulse of tricky mother-daughter relationships, gently prods cultural norms, and keeps you guessing as to whodunnit all in an expertly paced style. I can’t wait to see what Kausar Khan gets up to next!
June 21, 2025
Wow wow wow, Uzma Jalaluddin has outdone herself with this one! What a great book: a wonderful cast of fascinating characters, an excellent mystery plot that has too many threads to count, and a lovingly rendered Scarborough setting.
An aunty newly widowed returns to Toronto after a decade and a half away following the death of her teenage son. This time, her daughter Sana is in trouble: the landlord of her plaza has been found murdered in her desi clothing store, but Sana as the obvious suspect doesn't add up. Here comes Kausar to take advantage of people underestimating her as just another nosy middle-aged aunty while she investigates.
Jalaluddin manages to smartly and smoothly integrate themes of gentrification, police incompetence/bias/immorality, grief, marriage/divorce in Muslim communities, friendship, and family. I absolutely loved this. It's as thoughtful as it page-turning.
Standout audiobook performance by Deepti Gupta, who masterfully pulls off multiple accents and character voices.
An aunty newly widowed returns to Toronto after a decade and a half away following the death of her teenage son. This time, her daughter Sana is in trouble: the landlord of her plaza has been found murdered in her desi clothing store, but Sana as the obvious suspect doesn't add up. Here comes Kausar to take advantage of people underestimating her as just another nosy middle-aged aunty while she investigates.
Jalaluddin manages to smartly and smoothly integrate themes of gentrification, police incompetence/bias/immorality, grief, marriage/divorce in Muslim communities, friendship, and family. I absolutely loved this. It's as thoughtful as it page-turning.
Standout audiobook performance by Deepti Gupta, who masterfully pulls off multiple accents and character voices.
September 27, 2025
Cozy in Scarborough, Toronto 🍁
A review of the Harper Perennial paperback (May 6, 2025) released simultaneously with the eBook/audiobook.
[Maybe a 4, but bumped up to a 5 due to Toronto & Canadian bias 😊]
I can't hide my delight and bias here about this cozy mystery which has the widow Kausar Khan returning to Toronto to help her daughter Sana who is the lead suspect in the murder of a shady landlord in the suburban plaza where the daughter operates a clothing store.
Kausar and her husband Dr. Khan had retreated to North Bay after the trauma of their youngest son being fatally injured in a hit and run in Toronto. Kausar has refused to travel back for 15+ years, although Sana and her 2 grandchildren have visited North Bay periodically. When her daughter is facing possible arrest, trial and conviction, Kausar steels herself to return.
What follows is her amateur investigation and her reconnections with friends from the past as she uncovers shady real estate dealings, undercover police operations, a possible car-theft ring and last but not least, the actual murderer! This is often done with a nod and a wink to Agatha Christie and the methods of Hercule Poirot (one of my current ongoing binge-reads) ending with the now famous "gather all the suspects in a room for the final reveal."
We are left hanging a bit at the end with some unresolved issues, but this is not cause for an Unsatisfactory Ending Alert! Instead it is a sign that we can hope for the return of Kausar Khan in a future book #2 of a hopefully ongoing series.
A review of the Harper Perennial paperback (May 6, 2025) released simultaneously with the eBook/audiobook.
"I'm not interfering," Kausar said. "I only want to find out what's going on."
"That is the literal definition of interfering, Mom." Adam sighed.
[Maybe a 4, but bumped up to a 5 due to Toronto & Canadian bias 😊]
I can't hide my delight and bias here about this cozy mystery which has the widow Kausar Khan returning to Toronto to help her daughter Sana who is the lead suspect in the murder of a shady landlord in the suburban plaza where the daughter operates a clothing store.
Kausar and her husband Dr. Khan had retreated to North Bay after the trauma of their youngest son being fatally injured in a hit and run in Toronto. Kausar has refused to travel back for 15+ years, although Sana and her 2 grandchildren have visited North Bay periodically. When her daughter is facing possible arrest, trial and conviction, Kausar steels herself to return.
What follows is her amateur investigation and her reconnections with friends from the past as she uncovers shady real estate dealings, undercover police operations, a possible car-theft ring and last but not least, the actual murderer! This is often done with a nod and a wink to Agatha Christie and the methods of Hercule Poirot (one of my current ongoing binge-reads) ending with the now famous "gather all the suspects in a room for the final reveal."
May said. “Now, back to the case. Are you going to tell me who killed Imran? I know you’ve figured it out.”
Kausar shook her head and tried to look mysterious. “According to your detective shows, I’m not allowed to unmask the killer until the very end.”
“How about a hint?” May wheedled. “Poirot always gave Hastings a fair shot.”
We are left hanging a bit at the end with some unresolved issues, but this is not cause for an Unsatisfactory Ending Alert! Instead it is a sign that we can hope for the return of Kausar Khan in a future book #2 of a hopefully ongoing series.
May 15, 2025
It just wasn’t for me. I was sooooo excited about the plot, and the cover drew me in. However, 1/2 through and I had a large dislike for 95% of the characters. I continued to power through but my annoyance grew just as much as my craving for a cup of chai. I really wanted to like this more.
February 14, 2025
I have always felt that Uzma Jalaluddin's writing was best when she was exploring family relationships, and in this book, she really leans into it!
Kausar Khan is a widow who's always had a knack for figuring things out, and when her daughter is accused of murder, she knows she has to do more than cook, clean, and keep an eye on her granddaughters. The problem is... no one else, including the real killer, is particularly happy with Detective Aunty on the case!
Billed as a cozy mystery, I think this book is actually better than that. It definitely has "Murder, She Wrote" vibes, but it also touches on larger themes of grief and loss, estranged family relationships and healing, and even thoughtful reflections on growing older as a desi woman. She does manage to slip a little hint of romance in there, and it's very sweet! (Ngl I think she does older characters better than younger ones lol)
While there are Muslim characters and references to the masjid, janaazas, saying Salam, duas etc this book isn't super Muslamic, but it does feel authentic and refreshing anyway. These are Muslim characters whose storyline doesn't revolve around Islamophobia or anything too dramatic (as if murder isn't dramatic lol); they're just average (kinda cultural) Muslims who happen to be caught up in something.
I didn't expect to love this story as much as I did! The only annoying bit was how she would go out of her way to explain terms to a non-desi/non-Muslim audience, which I found unnecessary and broke immersion. It's 2025 - let people Google what "jaan" or "beta" means!
This isn't high literature by any means, but it was a sweet, fun little mystery novel (complete with a dinner reveal!) that was playful and meaningful too.
Thanks to Harper Collins Canada for providing me with a digital ARC!
4/5 🌟
Kausar Khan is a widow who's always had a knack for figuring things out, and when her daughter is accused of murder, she knows she has to do more than cook, clean, and keep an eye on her granddaughters. The problem is... no one else, including the real killer, is particularly happy with Detective Aunty on the case!
Billed as a cozy mystery, I think this book is actually better than that. It definitely has "Murder, She Wrote" vibes, but it also touches on larger themes of grief and loss, estranged family relationships and healing, and even thoughtful reflections on growing older as a desi woman. She does manage to slip a little hint of romance in there, and it's very sweet! (Ngl I think she does older characters better than younger ones lol)
While there are Muslim characters and references to the masjid, janaazas, saying Salam, duas etc this book isn't super Muslamic, but it does feel authentic and refreshing anyway. These are Muslim characters whose storyline doesn't revolve around Islamophobia or anything too dramatic (as if murder isn't dramatic lol); they're just average (kinda cultural) Muslims who happen to be caught up in something.
I didn't expect to love this story as much as I did! The only annoying bit was how she would go out of her way to explain terms to a non-desi/non-Muslim audience, which I found unnecessary and broke immersion. It's 2025 - let people Google what "jaan" or "beta" means!
This isn't high literature by any means, but it was a sweet, fun little mystery novel (complete with a dinner reveal!) that was playful and meaningful too.
Thanks to Harper Collins Canada for providing me with a digital ARC!
4/5 🌟
![Profile Image for laurel [the suspected bibliophile].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1645808644i/7494844._UX200_CR0,6,200,200_.jpg)
June 21, 2025
I love literally everything Uzma Jalaluddin writes, and her debut cozy mystery is no exception!
Kausar Khan is a widow stepping out into her second life—until her estranged daughter calls, summoning Kausar back to Toronto to help her out because she's just been framed for murder. Kausar leaps onto the case, peeling back the layers with charm and intellect, and rediscovers a community she'd left behind nearly 15 years ago on the sudden death of her youngest son.
This was so good—a self-aware, slow-paced stroll through a Desi community struggling with cultural and familial expectations, gentrification, and the death of a loathed-but-powerful landlord. And, of course, an amateur detective used to being overlooked for the majority of her life.
Kausar Khan is a widow stepping out into her second life—until her estranged daughter calls, summoning Kausar back to Toronto to help her out because she's just been framed for murder. Kausar leaps onto the case, peeling back the layers with charm and intellect, and rediscovers a community she'd left behind nearly 15 years ago on the sudden death of her youngest son.
This was so good—a self-aware, slow-paced stroll through a Desi community struggling with cultural and familial expectations, gentrification, and the death of a loathed-but-powerful landlord. And, of course, an amateur detective used to being overlooked for the majority of her life.
February 9, 2026
This was a slow burn, but about one quarter or one third, I couldn't put it down!
This was cute, fun, and quick. It was cozy but also involved and twisty. Quite a good read, and worth following this author.
This is a complex murder mystery with so many lies and tangled threada, it becomes more and more captivating. The MC is someone who notices, remembers, and connects things - very much like Holmes, Monk, or Morgan (from High Potential). She tells the reader what she sees, without divulging her theories, which I appreciate. That allows me to try to solve the mystery with her, rather than having a rabbit pulled out of a hat at the end. Nope didn't predict the actual murderer. I will be reading more!
This was cute, fun, and quick. It was cozy but also involved and twisty. Quite a good read, and worth following this author.
This is a complex murder mystery with so many lies and tangled threada, it becomes more and more captivating. The MC is someone who notices, remembers, and connects things - very much like Holmes, Monk, or Morgan (from High Potential). She tells the reader what she sees, without divulging her theories, which I appreciate. That allows me to try to solve the mystery with her, rather than having a rabbit pulled out of a hat at the end. Nope didn't predict the actual murderer. I will be reading more!
April 22, 2025
Detective Aunty is book one in the Detective Aunty Investigates series. It is the first book in a new cozy mystery series featuring Muslim characters.
Fifty-seven year old Kausar (pronounced Caw-sir according to the author) is a mother and grandmother. After her daughter Sana finds herself involved in a murder mystery, Kausar is determined to help her. She immediately gets on a plane to Toronto to try to solve her daughter's case. Kausar isn't a detective. But she is very observant and she gets people to talk to her.
I loved this book so much. This book focuses so much on Muslim culture and the Muslim community in Toronto. It is not as light and funny as some cozy mysteries. But it is full of heart. I adored Kausar. I loved her granddaughters. And I was obsessed with so many of the supporting characters in this story, especially Kausar's friends Nasir and May.
The amateur sleuthing is so good. The mystery is complex. And the amount of Muslim culture that is featured in this book is impressive. All of these aspects add so much to this murder mystery.
Also mental health is discussed, including depression and grief. This made the book so much more special IMO.
Overall, I highly recommend this book. So many Muslim terms and customs are included that I felt like I learned so much. Plus I was completely entranced by Kausar and her detective skills. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in this series.
Thanks to HarperCollins Canada for allowing me to read this book.
Fifty-seven year old Kausar (pronounced Caw-sir according to the author) is a mother and grandmother. After her daughter Sana finds herself involved in a murder mystery, Kausar is determined to help her. She immediately gets on a plane to Toronto to try to solve her daughter's case. Kausar isn't a detective. But she is very observant and she gets people to talk to her.
I loved this book so much. This book focuses so much on Muslim culture and the Muslim community in Toronto. It is not as light and funny as some cozy mysteries. But it is full of heart. I adored Kausar. I loved her granddaughters. And I was obsessed with so many of the supporting characters in this story, especially Kausar's friends Nasir and May.
The amateur sleuthing is so good. The mystery is complex. And the amount of Muslim culture that is featured in this book is impressive. All of these aspects add so much to this murder mystery.
Also mental health is discussed, including depression and grief. This made the book so much more special IMO.
Overall, I highly recommend this book. So many Muslim terms and customs are included that I felt like I learned so much. Plus I was completely entranced by Kausar and her detective skills. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in this series.
Thanks to HarperCollins Canada for allowing me to read this book.
June 18, 2025
I struggled to finish this book. It’s slow, boring and none of the characters are likable.
August 14, 2025
I loved this! So well written, so much good character work, and a really twisty mystery and the promise of more to come. This author has found her sweet spot with mystery. I liked this much better than the romance I read from her. Literally so sad I can't just immediately read the next one.
[4.5 stars, rounded up]
[4.5 stars, rounded up]
September 20, 2025
Loved this book. Great start to a cozy mystery. The murder was a real puzzle to solve and I enjoyed the journey to figure out how and why. It had great characters as well as issues, emotions and family relations that needed to be worked on and lastly getting attached to the characters. Looking forward to book 2.
March 21, 2025
Despite the intriguing look at an immigrant community in Toronto, this multicultural cozy mystery -- the first in a new series -- was too slow paced for me. Other mystery fans may find the sedate unspooling of the story just their cup of tea.
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September 2, 2026Entertaining murder mystery with a desi Canadian in her 50s coming out of widowhood to investigate her daughter's murder (as possible perpetrator, not victim). Deeply relatable lead and a solid family background give it plenty of heart and the setting is very well drawn. Hope it's a series.
April 3, 2025
I loved this so much and am so sad it’s over!!!
When Uzma Jalaluddin announced she was writing a new mystery series, I was so excited. I loved Ayesha at Last and Hana Khan Carries on and spending time in the Toronto Muslim community in which they take place. I like the occasional romance, and hers are good examples of the form – well-written and adorable, the book versions of rom-com movies. But I like a good (gentle!) mystery even more, so I was ecstatic to win this advance reader copy from a Goodreads giveaway.
It was fantastic! I loved the “older” protagonist, Kausar Khan, and her fellow “aunty” friends who help her solve the mystery of who killed her daughter’s landlord, a crime her daughter is accused of committing. I loved the peeks into Indian/Pakistani Muslim immigrant culture, and the commentary on women in more traditional families evolving from more passive roles in the first part of their lives to more active roles and self-determined choices in the latter part of their lives. The “second act” theme is a big one here, and I loved the empowerment of women of all ages.
Of course, there are a few minor quibbles – some inconsistencies (this is an ARC, after all), plot points being too convenient, etc. But I don’t care. I love spending time in this world and reading a mystery that is fun and breezy but still well-written. (I’d say this is between a cozy mystery and a Louise Penny.) I hope Jalaluddin keeps writing these so I can keep reading them.
Thank you to the publisher and Goodreads for the advance copy!
When Uzma Jalaluddin announced she was writing a new mystery series, I was so excited. I loved Ayesha at Last and Hana Khan Carries on and spending time in the Toronto Muslim community in which they take place. I like the occasional romance, and hers are good examples of the form – well-written and adorable, the book versions of rom-com movies. But I like a good (gentle!) mystery even more, so I was ecstatic to win this advance reader copy from a Goodreads giveaway.
It was fantastic! I loved the “older” protagonist, Kausar Khan, and her fellow “aunty” friends who help her solve the mystery of who killed her daughter’s landlord, a crime her daughter is accused of committing. I loved the peeks into Indian/Pakistani Muslim immigrant culture, and the commentary on women in more traditional families evolving from more passive roles in the first part of their lives to more active roles and self-determined choices in the latter part of their lives. The “second act” theme is a big one here, and I loved the empowerment of women of all ages.
Of course, there are a few minor quibbles – some inconsistencies (this is an ARC, after all), plot points being too convenient, etc. But I don’t care. I love spending time in this world and reading a mystery that is fun and breezy but still well-written. (I’d say this is between a cozy mystery and a Louise Penny.) I hope Jalaluddin keeps writing these so I can keep reading them.
Thank you to the publisher and Goodreads for the advance copy!
July 7, 2025
3.5 stars. I liked this but it wasn’t a love for me. Picked this up because I read that it was similar to Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers, which I loved, but this was a much heavier tale of family drama and grief. Far less levity than I expected. I did enjoy learning about desi culture and overall it was an enjoyable read.
However, I could not get over that she betrayed Fatima in a very public setting after the woman had been a fantastic, supportive and understanding friend. The author barely touched on her remorse that Fatima was caught in the crosshairs but it was not enough in my opinion! This just left such an awful taste in my mouth.
Overall, well written murder mystery that sets up the series well.
However, I could not get over that she betrayed Fatima in a very public setting after the woman had been a fantastic, supportive and understanding friend. The author barely touched on her remorse that Fatima was caught in the crosshairs but it was not enough in my opinion! This just left such an awful taste in my mouth.
Overall, well written murder mystery that sets up the series well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2026
Aunty has got everyone CLOCKED. let's go aunty
i'm going to be this type of meddling, annoying aunty that's in everyones business when i grow up
i'm going to be this type of meddling, annoying aunty that's in everyones business when i grow up
January 22, 2026
This was a surprisingly layered cozy mystery. I appreciated the way the author wove in cultural terms and context without being too “teachy”. That said, readers already familiar with the South Asian culture may find some of those explanations a bit remedial. The plot had a lot of moving parts meaning nearly every character had a storyline or secret, which definitely kept me guessing, but it did start to feel a little crowded for a book just over 300 pages. Still, I liked the blend of family dynamics, grief, small business drama, and community. As someone who doesn’t read a ton of mystery, I thought it was a solid read.
August 18, 2026
I thought it would be better, but wasn't.
June 12, 2026
Comforting mystery
Detective Aunty is a enjoyable, cozy murder mystery. The story is not only about solving a crime but also about family relationships and how people come together during difficult times. I liked how the mystery kept me interested while also showing the importance of love and truth within a family, and how a family can grow stronger when facing challenges together.
Detective Aunty is a enjoyable, cozy murder mystery. The story is not only about solving a crime but also about family relationships and how people come together during difficult times. I liked how the mystery kept me interested while also showing the importance of love and truth within a family, and how a family can grow stronger when facing challenges together.
August 17, 2026
4.5/5
Detective Aunty was the kind of book which I wanted to come back to as soon as I was done with my chores! I was completely hooked! I also realized, that with mystery genre, I have got zero chill! It’s actually excruciating for me to sit tight and wait for the final reveal so I can’t help but flip pages like swatting flies from my face! 🤣
I was afraid that this book would be too similar to Vera Wong which is why I couldn’t help but draw parallels but I am happy to share that while both of them share a similar theme of a cozy mystery, that’s where the resemblance ends.
I really enjoyed the process of solving the maze of who did it and it was pleasant to realize that I got blindsided with one of the characters. I love how it mentioned desi societal issues which hit home and made it the book all more relatable and realistic.
If cozy mystery is your genre, you’ll love it! Can’t wait to hop on to the next one from this series!
P.S. one thing that was a tad bit disappointing was how there was no mention of Adam (Kausar’s som) towards the end when he was supposedly so close to Sana.
Detective Aunty was the kind of book which I wanted to come back to as soon as I was done with my chores! I was completely hooked! I also realized, that with mystery genre, I have got zero chill! It’s actually excruciating for me to sit tight and wait for the final reveal so I can’t help but flip pages like swatting flies from my face! 🤣
I was afraid that this book would be too similar to Vera Wong which is why I couldn’t help but draw parallels but I am happy to share that while both of them share a similar theme of a cozy mystery, that’s where the resemblance ends.
I really enjoyed the process of solving the maze of who did it and it was pleasant to realize that I got blindsided with one of the characters. I love how it mentioned desi societal issues which hit home and made it the book all more relatable and realistic.
If cozy mystery is your genre, you’ll love it! Can’t wait to hop on to the next one from this series!
P.S. one thing that was a tad bit disappointing was how there was no mention of Adam (Kausar’s som) towards the end when he was supposedly so close to Sana.
February 5, 2025
Really enjoyed Detective Aunty!
I especially loved the last several chapters!
My first novel by Uzma Jalaluddin; not my last. Loved this Aunty.
Cozy mysteries are not my typical genre, but I was captivated by the title and cover. The central character is Kausar; her daughter is being investigated for a murder. Kausar hasn't returned to the neighborhood in quite some time but had some history there and she has a knack for investigating.
I'm not familiar with the Muslim culture and I enjoyed being introduced to that bit of diversity with some customs and phrases. I didn't feel lost at all with the dialogue.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishing for the opportunity to read the advance read copy of Detective Aunty in exchange for an honest review. Approx 336 pages, publication date May 6, 2025.
I especially loved the last several chapters!
My first novel by Uzma Jalaluddin; not my last. Loved this Aunty.
Cozy mysteries are not my typical genre, but I was captivated by the title and cover. The central character is Kausar; her daughter is being investigated for a murder. Kausar hasn't returned to the neighborhood in quite some time but had some history there and she has a knack for investigating.
I'm not familiar with the Muslim culture and I enjoyed being introduced to that bit of diversity with some customs and phrases. I didn't feel lost at all with the dialogue.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishing for the opportunity to read the advance read copy of Detective Aunty in exchange for an honest review. Approx 336 pages, publication date May 6, 2025.
July 4, 2025
2.75 ⭐️ This was just mediocre to me! I felt a little disappointed about this being listed as a “cozy mystery” as I didn’t find it cozy at all 🥲. It was more like a family drama detective book that was very slow paced for my liking! That being said, it wasn’t absolutely terrible. I really enjoyed the Toronto setting, the characters, and the mystery overall! It just wasn’t my cup of (chai) tea! (iykyk)
October 27, 2025
"A woman who has made her peace with the past is wise, indeed."
Starting this one with an engaging opening, but turns out this book isn't for me. The plot was intriguing but most of the characters pissed me off. The second half of this book was boring and slow.
I don't know people called it "cozy mystery", because nothing cozy about this book.
September 2, 2025
DNF - 70%
What a boring book.
All they talk about is chai - as a “desi” I can tell you that we are not constantly making chai or thinking about it or offering it to everyone, and why does it take 20 mins to make it?
Another annoying part of the book was when the author called a room messy but not cluttered. Aren’t they the same thing?
Also, the characters were so goddamn annoying. She wasn’t detective aunty, she was just a nosey woman who couldn’t and wouldn’t mind her own business. These are the kind of aunties everyone must avoid at all costs, because all they do is gossip, which is how she allegedly solves the crime anyway. Fine, she was observant, but aren’t all moms? They know what’s up even before you know it. Doesn’t make you a detective, does it?
The characters had no likeable quality at all, it’s like they have only 1-2 emotions and lines to keep repeating every chapter. For example - Sana just didn’t want to talk, neither did her daughter. Her other daughter was “bubbly” and guess what her name was “Fizz-a”. Fatima was understanding and so willing to help after she ghosted her for almost 2 decades, and couldn’t be bothered to reach out even once (eye roll). As was May. Let’s not forget the cheesey lines sprinkled here and there, to make you “connect”.
Why did I waste my time reading this?
Rant over.
What a boring book.
All they talk about is chai - as a “desi” I can tell you that we are not constantly making chai or thinking about it or offering it to everyone, and why does it take 20 mins to make it?
Another annoying part of the book was when the author called a room messy but not cluttered. Aren’t they the same thing?
Also, the characters were so goddamn annoying. She wasn’t detective aunty, she was just a nosey woman who couldn’t and wouldn’t mind her own business. These are the kind of aunties everyone must avoid at all costs, because all they do is gossip, which is how she allegedly solves the crime anyway. Fine, she was observant, but aren’t all moms? They know what’s up even before you know it. Doesn’t make you a detective, does it?
The characters had no likeable quality at all, it’s like they have only 1-2 emotions and lines to keep repeating every chapter. For example - Sana just didn’t want to talk, neither did her daughter. Her other daughter was “bubbly” and guess what her name was “Fizz-a”. Fatima was understanding and so willing to help after she ghosted her for almost 2 decades, and couldn’t be bothered to reach out even once (eye roll). As was May. Let’s not forget the cheesey lines sprinkled here and there, to make you “connect”.
Why did I waste my time reading this?
Rant over.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Did Not Finish
January 4, 2026thank you so much to the publisher for the gifted copy!
I was really excited to read this one but unfortunately it fell flat. I started physically reading it and had a little trouble so I attempted the audiobook and at 21% in… it ended up being a DNF for me. Now this could totally be a me problem because out of a handful of books I’ve already read this year… all but one were 3 stars. So there is a pretty good chance I have reached a reading slump. I see so many raving reviews so if it’s something you want to read, I definitely think you should give it a try!
Happy reading 📖
I was really excited to read this one but unfortunately it fell flat. I started physically reading it and had a little trouble so I attempted the audiobook and at 21% in… it ended up being a DNF for me. Now this could totally be a me problem because out of a handful of books I’ve already read this year… all but one were 3 stars. So there is a pretty good chance I have reached a reading slump. I see so many raving reviews so if it’s something you want to read, I definitely think you should give it a try!
Happy reading 📖
November 6, 2025
It’s genuinely refreshing to see an “aunty” take center stage in a cozy mystery, a genre long dominated by quaint English villages and white protagonists with teacups and tabby cats. Uzma Jalaluddin flips that script with humor and warmth, showing that sharp intuition, cultural savvy, and emotional intelligence aren’t limited by age or background. Kausar Khan brings the spice and sensibility of real aunties everywhere: women who’ve seen it all, have opinions about everything, and aren’t afraid to meddle when justice (or family) is on the line.
I found Detective Aunty to be a delightful blend of heart, culture, and intrigue. Kausar is immediately likable, not perfect; but carrying her past grief, and yet fiercely determined to protect her daughter and her community. The neighborhood setting feels lived-in, the suspects and local dramas ring true, and the mystery has enough threads (murder, financial entanglements, community decay) to hold your attention.
What sets it apart is the interplay between Kausar’s “aunty” status (which many cultures recognise as someone wise, nosy, familial-but-not-blood) and her sleuthing instinct. The line “When in trouble, call an aunty” captures it nicely.
Thematically, the book touches on ageing (what does one do after a long marriage ends), diaspora and returning home, legacy (her son died earlier in her life), and how communities evolve. I appreciated that layer of emotional resonance beyond the plot.
It doesn’t reinvent the detective genre, but it gives a fresh voice and a warm, strongly-written story. It’s especially recommended if you like cozy mysteries, community-driven stories, or want a detective who is older and rooted in culture rather than a stereotypical young investigator.
It’s a strong start to what could become a favorite series. I’ll be eager to see what Kausar does next.
4.5 stars 🌟
I found Detective Aunty to be a delightful blend of heart, culture, and intrigue. Kausar is immediately likable, not perfect; but carrying her past grief, and yet fiercely determined to protect her daughter and her community. The neighborhood setting feels lived-in, the suspects and local dramas ring true, and the mystery has enough threads (murder, financial entanglements, community decay) to hold your attention.
What sets it apart is the interplay between Kausar’s “aunty” status (which many cultures recognise as someone wise, nosy, familial-but-not-blood) and her sleuthing instinct. The line “When in trouble, call an aunty” captures it nicely.
Thematically, the book touches on ageing (what does one do after a long marriage ends), diaspora and returning home, legacy (her son died earlier in her life), and how communities evolve. I appreciated that layer of emotional resonance beyond the plot.
It doesn’t reinvent the detective genre, but it gives a fresh voice and a warm, strongly-written story. It’s especially recommended if you like cozy mysteries, community-driven stories, or want a detective who is older and rooted in culture rather than a stereotypical young investigator.
It’s a strong start to what could become a favorite series. I’ll be eager to see what Kausar does next.
4.5 stars 🌟
July 14, 2026
I picked up this book when it randomly showed up on my GR feed. The story revolves around amateur sleuth Kausar Khan, an Indian Muslim who has immigrated to Canada. Her grown up daughter is arrested for a murder and Kausar takes it on herself to find the truth. While the setting in Toronto is good and exploring the culture is nice too, the writing falters at places.
The balance between the mystery and trying to set right the strained relationships has been done well in the book. Even though the book is labelled as "cozy mystery" it sure is not cozy. It has lot of elements of grief, working out of it, setting the relationships right and such.
The plot does have lot of moving parts and there are too many red herrings and each of them had a storyline/secret and this kind of crowded the barely 300+ pages book. I really did not like the MC faking a medical emergency to get something out of her 16 year old grand daughter who already has lot of baggage. This felt unnecessary and insensitive. Still the blend of mystery with family dynamics, self discovery and strong community network has come together well in this book.
All in all, it's one time quick read.
My rating 2.75* rounded to 3*
The balance between the mystery and trying to set right the strained relationships has been done well in the book. Even though the book is labelled as "cozy mystery" it sure is not cozy. It has lot of elements of grief, working out of it, setting the relationships right and such.
The plot does have lot of moving parts and there are too many red herrings and each of them had a storyline/secret and this kind of crowded the barely 300+ pages book. I really did not like the MC faking a medical emergency to get something out of her 16 year old grand daughter who already has lot of baggage. This felt unnecessary and insensitive. Still the blend of mystery with family dynamics, self discovery and strong community network has come together well in this book.
All in all, it's one time quick read.
My rating 2.75* rounded to 3*
July 17, 2026
This book had potential! And then the author drowned it mercilessly in 50 cups of chai.
The characters were flat and insufferable. Personalities were occasionally changed to suit plot points but overall were two dimensional and boring.
The oldest daughter holds the key to her mother’s innocence, but lets her mom go to prison for murder anyway. The grandmother, Kausar, is the ‘aunty’ the author hopes you will find endearing and clever, but who is in fact intrusive and self righteous. She doesn’t notice *that* much, she basically asks everyone if they murdered Imran and works her way down to her granddaughter telling her everything. She spends most of the book wanting to confront her estranged family about their failings. She is unnecessarily and unabashedly cruel to a loyal and dear friend. She’s a menace, but we are to believe she is brilliant and devoted to those she cares about.
The younger daughter serves no purpose in the book except to show Kausar a feature on her phone, after which she is dismissed from the storyline and whisked away anytime something happens.
The writing itself is remarkably amateurish in structure, pacing, and vocabulary. It goes so far as to be rather contemptuous of the reader. We are consistently reminded of major events that occurred just a few pages prior, there is the assumption every cultural reference must be explained (repeatedly) at the cost of pacing, and descriptive terms are general and ineffective. We use the word pretty three times in two pages, (pretty flowers, pretty cup, pretty dress…and then later close out the acknowledgments by telling the reader they look really pretty today to continue to add insult to injury), but no scenery descriptions serve a purpose or set the mood. Actually it’s impossible to set any mood (besides frustration) because every emotion and thought is painstakingly written out, repeatedly, leaving nothing to be inferred. Uzma doesn’t trust her reader to grasp anything she doesn’t explain, but also does a poor job of explaining.
The book does try to be somewhat feminist- but it’s exhausting. Whenever she can say two women looked at each other, she does. Yes, we fully comprehend that the grandmother and mother are women… And that Kausar and her friend are women. Repeatedly saying the word women doesn’t make it a book empowering women.
However, I will grant she does touch on important generational and sexist views (that coupled with the fact she does try to give an introductory view of the culture) is why I gave it two stars instead of just one.
But I did not care who killed who in the end. I was just glad I had survived. It’s more of a testament of the love I have for my book club than anything this book actually did to get me to finish. I would have tossed it after chapter 3.
The characters were flat and insufferable. Personalities were occasionally changed to suit plot points but overall were two dimensional and boring.
The oldest daughter holds the key to her mother’s innocence, but lets her mom go to prison for murder anyway. The grandmother, Kausar, is the ‘aunty’ the author hopes you will find endearing and clever, but who is in fact intrusive and self righteous. She doesn’t notice *that* much, she basically asks everyone if they murdered Imran and works her way down to her granddaughter telling her everything. She spends most of the book wanting to confront her estranged family about their failings. She is unnecessarily and unabashedly cruel to a loyal and dear friend. She’s a menace, but we are to believe she is brilliant and devoted to those she cares about.
The younger daughter serves no purpose in the book except to show Kausar a feature on her phone, after which she is dismissed from the storyline and whisked away anytime something happens.
The writing itself is remarkably amateurish in structure, pacing, and vocabulary. It goes so far as to be rather contemptuous of the reader. We are consistently reminded of major events that occurred just a few pages prior, there is the assumption every cultural reference must be explained (repeatedly) at the cost of pacing, and descriptive terms are general and ineffective. We use the word pretty three times in two pages, (pretty flowers, pretty cup, pretty dress…and then later close out the acknowledgments by telling the reader they look really pretty today to continue to add insult to injury), but no scenery descriptions serve a purpose or set the mood. Actually it’s impossible to set any mood (besides frustration) because every emotion and thought is painstakingly written out, repeatedly, leaving nothing to be inferred. Uzma doesn’t trust her reader to grasp anything she doesn’t explain, but also does a poor job of explaining.
The book does try to be somewhat feminist- but it’s exhausting. Whenever she can say two women looked at each other, she does. Yes, we fully comprehend that the grandmother and mother are women… And that Kausar and her friend are women. Repeatedly saying the word women doesn’t make it a book empowering women.
However, I will grant she does touch on important generational and sexist views (that coupled with the fact she does try to give an introductory view of the culture) is why I gave it two stars instead of just one.
But I did not care who killed who in the end. I was just glad I had survived. It’s more of a testament of the love I have for my book club than anything this book actually did to get me to finish. I would have tossed it after chapter 3.
June 15, 2025
4.25 ⭐️ A fun, smart read with heart and humor! All of the Toronto references were spot on and sharply current. The little romance subplot was unexpected but funny! Few moments felt a bit convoluted but overall the plot delivers with pretty satisfying ending. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
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