What do you think?
Miss Cassidy #2
The Enigmatic Madam Ingram
Finalist for the 2023 Epigram Books Fiction Prize
In this exciting sequel to the multi-award-winning novel, The Formidable Miss Cassidy, Letty Ingram, a half-Malayan lady raised in the UK, has suffered under a strange curse her whole life. Her beautiful and fearsome mother, from an unknown island in the Malay Archipelago, is the key to the mystery. Letty arrives in Singapore in 1906 to seek the help of the Chinese medium, Madam Kay. But Madam Kay’s whole family gets involved, including her sister, her father…and their unusual mutual friend, the formidable Miss Cassidy.
Author Meihan Boey illustrates the lengths Letty will go to in order to save her own soul, and reveals how Miss Cassidy's past has caught up with her, in the shape of a worthy opponent: a terrifying jungle spirit the native folk call the Bungadarah.
In this exciting sequel to the multi-award-winning novel, The Formidable Miss Cassidy, Letty Ingram, a half-Malayan lady raised in the UK, has suffered under a strange curse her whole life. Her beautiful and fearsome mother, from an unknown island in the Malay Archipelago, is the key to the mystery. Letty arrives in Singapore in 1906 to seek the help of the Chinese medium, Madam Kay. But Madam Kay’s whole family gets involved, including her sister, her father…and their unusual mutual friend, the formidable Miss Cassidy.
Author Meihan Boey illustrates the lengths Letty will go to in order to save her own soul, and reveals how Miss Cassidy's past has caught up with her, in the shape of a worthy opponent: a terrifying jungle spirit the native folk call the Bungadarah.
512 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2023
About the author
Meihan Boey
12 books102 followersMeihan Boey is the author of novels The Formidable Miss Cassidy (co-winner of the 2021 Epigram Books Fiction Prize and winner of the 2022 Singapore Book Award for Best Literary Work) and The Enigmatic Madam Ingram (finalist for the 2023 Epigram Books Fiction Prize), and science fiction novella The Messiah Virus. She is also the vice president of the Association of Comic Artists of Singapore and has scripted several comics, including Supacross and The Once and Marvellous DKD. She is a dedicated comic book and manga fan, an enthusiastic gamer, a persistent triathlete, and not yet a Super Saiyan, though she keeps trying.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
September 16, 2026
The Enigmatic Madam Ingram by Meihan Boey is the literary equivalent of being invited to afternoon tea by someone who may or may not have murdered a person before dessert.
Set against a wonderfully atmospheric Singapore, the novel serves up mystery, history, family secrets, and just enough eccentricity to make you wonder whether everyone involved needs a detective—or a therapist. Madam Ingram herself is, naturally, the sort of woman who enters a room and immediately makes you suspect that she knows where the bodies are buried. Possibly because she does.
What makes the book particularly enjoyable is the way Boey blends the intrigue of a mystery with the richness of Singapore's past. There’s a delicious sense of peeling back layers: every revelation answers one question while casually producing three more. At times I found myself thinking, Surely things can't get any stranger than this. The book would then politely prove me wrong.
Boey’s writing has a lovely sense of place, and the historical details give the story an extra dimension without turning it into a dusty history lecture. The characters are memorable, the secrets are plentiful, and the atmosphere is deliciously uncanny.
If you enjoy mysteries involving complicated families, buried secrets, fascinating historical settings, and characters who are absolutely terrible at simply telling each other the truth, The Enigmatic Madam Ingram is well worth picking up.
Rating: 4 out of 5 suspicious cups of tea.
One star withheld because I now trust absolutely no one who says, “There’s something I need to tell you…”
Set against a wonderfully atmospheric Singapore, the novel serves up mystery, history, family secrets, and just enough eccentricity to make you wonder whether everyone involved needs a detective—or a therapist. Madam Ingram herself is, naturally, the sort of woman who enters a room and immediately makes you suspect that she knows where the bodies are buried. Possibly because she does.
What makes the book particularly enjoyable is the way Boey blends the intrigue of a mystery with the richness of Singapore's past. There’s a delicious sense of peeling back layers: every revelation answers one question while casually producing three more. At times I found myself thinking, Surely things can't get any stranger than this. The book would then politely prove me wrong.
Boey’s writing has a lovely sense of place, and the historical details give the story an extra dimension without turning it into a dusty history lecture. The characters are memorable, the secrets are plentiful, and the atmosphere is deliciously uncanny.
If you enjoy mysteries involving complicated families, buried secrets, fascinating historical settings, and characters who are absolutely terrible at simply telling each other the truth, The Enigmatic Madam Ingram is well worth picking up.
Rating: 4 out of 5 suspicious cups of tea.
One star withheld because I now trust absolutely no one who says, “There’s something I need to tell you…”
August 21, 2026
I appreciate the attempt to bring in different mythologies/characters but it felt a bit disjointed. Sometimes simpler is better. This felt like it was trying too hard to conjure a mystical spirit. I loved the first book in the series enough though to want to continue to the third.
November 8, 2023
Absolutely breathtaking, I can barely find the words to describe the world that Meihan Boey has brought to life through mere words on paper. I was taken away by her first book and was waiting earnestly for the second, and had naively assumed it might not match up to its predecessor. However, she managed to switch it up with the introduction of refreshingly different characters, elements and storylines, whilst still keeping the mesmerising and fantastical wonder of the first book. I might even say it is better!
I am utterly devastated that I will have to wait a long while before a third book, but I cannot wait to see what this author writes next.
I am utterly devastated that I will have to wait a long while before a third book, but I cannot wait to see what this author writes next.
May 14, 2026
This was a little all over the place and seemed to drag on a bit, which is a shame as the concept was interesting and introduced new characters
September 16, 2026
The Enigmatic Madam Ingram is the sequel to The Formidable Miss Cassidy. Letty Ingram has just arrived in Singapore. She has no memories of her past except that she knows she is cursed. She reaches out to Madam Kay for help in breaking her curse. Madam Kay doesn’t know how to help her. However, Miss Cassidy has the knowledge to help Letty. Under Miss Cassidy’s guidance, Letty begins unraveling her memories and to break the curse that has long haunted her. Could Letty find a way to break her curse and find her own freedom?
Letty is an entirely new character from the Miss Cassidy trilogy. The story in this book revolves around her. I found Letty to be a tragic figure. She is in a loveless marriage for security. She also forgot where she is from. The only thing she knows is that she is cursed. I sympathized with Letty’s story as her sad and lonely past begins to be revealed. I was fascinated by her story, and I wanted to know her conclusion.
Overall, this book is about love, sacrifice, and secrets. I like the new characters in this novel. It was also refreshing to read about the characters from the previous novels. Mr. Kay is still searching for Miss Cassidy. I liked that we learn more about Miss Cassidy’s past. I also liked the mythological creatures that are in this novel. I loved the setting! One drawback to this novel was that some parts of the story were confusing. There were also times when the novel tended to drag and seemed drawn out. Nevertheless, it was a fun and entertaining read! I am eager to read the final novel, The Mystical Mr. Kay! I recommend this novel for fans of The Ghost Bride, The Girl with Ghost Eyes, and Bitter Spirits!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)
Letty is an entirely new character from the Miss Cassidy trilogy. The story in this book revolves around her. I found Letty to be a tragic figure. She is in a loveless marriage for security. She also forgot where she is from. The only thing she knows is that she is cursed. I sympathized with Letty’s story as her sad and lonely past begins to be revealed. I was fascinated by her story, and I wanted to know her conclusion.
Overall, this book is about love, sacrifice, and secrets. I like the new characters in this novel. It was also refreshing to read about the characters from the previous novels. Mr. Kay is still searching for Miss Cassidy. I liked that we learn more about Miss Cassidy’s past. I also liked the mythological creatures that are in this novel. I loved the setting! One drawback to this novel was that some parts of the story were confusing. There were also times when the novel tended to drag and seemed drawn out. Nevertheless, it was a fun and entertaining read! I am eager to read the final novel, The Mystical Mr. Kay! I recommend this novel for fans of The Ghost Bride, The Girl with Ghost Eyes, and Bitter Spirits!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)
June 5, 2026
3.5 stars.
I liked going back to the world of Miss Cassidy, the folklore is really interesting and I like how all the different cultures mythology converge and mix.
This one follows Madam Ingram, who is trying to reveal parts of her life that she’s missing and how her life intersects Miss Cassidy.
The settings are mainly in Singapore and Scotland. We get more of Miss Cassidy’s lore and character development for her, flaws and all. Mister Kay is featured and we get a little more development with their relationship.
The book is layered and the reveals come all throughout the book. Your understanding of the plot and lore has to build up as you read on, so the mystery works really well.
I’m really intrigued to pick up the next one is the series.
Thanks to Bolinda Audio on NetGalley for the audiobook to review.
I liked going back to the world of Miss Cassidy, the folklore is really interesting and I like how all the different cultures mythology converge and mix.
This one follows Madam Ingram, who is trying to reveal parts of her life that she’s missing and how her life intersects Miss Cassidy.
The settings are mainly in Singapore and Scotland. We get more of Miss Cassidy’s lore and character development for her, flaws and all. Mister Kay is featured and we get a little more development with their relationship.
The book is layered and the reveals come all throughout the book. Your understanding of the plot and lore has to build up as you read on, so the mystery works really well.
I’m really intrigued to pick up the next one is the series.
Thanks to Bolinda Audio on NetGalley for the audiobook to review.
May 7, 2025
3.5
Still ! The concept is so cool ! I want to like it more
Still ! The concept is so cool ! I want to like it more
February 22, 2026
I am touched by how MeiHan Boey encapsulates the spirit and culture and workings of the Malayan life, the hardworking multicultural flavours of different languages and races living together, the values that bind families across generations. “But the Kay twins were wives and mothers now, and wives and mothers cannot tarry forever. Madam Kay and Mrs De Souza, with a good, strong grip on each other’s hands, were determined to stay the course.…” I can see it all, feel it all, things and people and food and folktales I grew up with. Lovely
May 31, 2026
I didn't find this as engaging as the first book - I only kept reading bc I wanted Mr. Kay and Miss Cassidy to be together, and the first book left that unclear. Madam Ingram was interesting, and I liked all the ways the various characters overlapped and intersected, but I found the mythology harder to follow than in the first book (I think 3 different Ingram women, all with some sort of magic, all with multiple names, was too much to keep track of, particularly in an audiobook).
Still planning to read the third book, assuming it is the last book in the series.
Still planning to read the third book, assuming it is the last book in the series.
May 21, 2026
Glad to have finished this because this book was unnecessary long. It peaked my interest at the start because of the mysteries and questions that needed unravelling but I ended up getting annoyed because there were just too many layers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was a bit confusing.
July 26, 2025
A fantastical tale that further expands the world inhabited by Miss Cassidy. Goddesses and female spirits (and the occasional male ones) from various western and Asian pantheons mix in this story about the relationship between a terrible spirit that wants to be loved by her 'daughters' and her daughters desire for their freedom from her. Into this conflict steps Miss Cassidy and her mortal 'companion', Mr. Kay, whose efforts may help to resolve it; or not.
Unlike the previous book, which is a linear tale mainly told from Miss Cassidy's viewpoint, this one is multilayered in both time (past and present) and with multiple viewpoints. It starts off with the first person viewpoint of Madam Ingram, who travels to Singapore to find Madam Kay (the daughter of Mr. Kay) for help with her ailment that has caused her to be labelled a madwoman in the west. The story then skips backwards in time as Madam Ingram starts recalling her past life with her mother and father, including events that she has strangely forgotten about.
The story then alternates with third person viewpoints from Miss Cassidy and Mr. Kay. As the story develops, it turns out that Miss Cassidy has encountered Madam Ingram and her mother in the past, while Mr. Kay is pulled into the half-world between the mortal and spiritual realms in an effort to resolve the mystery around a bizarre dancing spirit that may be related to Madam Ingram.
As the past (and present) slowly comes into focus for Madam Ingram, Miss Cassidy and Mr. Kay, it becomes apparent that they are facing a possessive and powerful spirit that wants her daughters to return to her and will not let Miss Cassidy (or others) get in her way. It would require all the help Madam Ingram can get from Miss Cassidy, Mr. Kay and others to face her mother and decide her own fate.
While the main tale is mysterious and grim in the telling, the atmosphere of the book itself is light-hearted and humorous, especially the bantering between Mr. Kay and Miss Cassidy. The goddesses featured in the book also inject some fun in the story via their interactions with Miss Cassidy. In this world, there are rules about how the various gods, goddesses and spirits can interact with each other and with the human world: breaking (or bending) the rules will eventually land Miss Cassidy in a lot of trouble.
By the end, the tale would involve journeys to the British Isles, France and India before returning to Singapore to focus on the final confrontation. It would also (somewhat unexpectedly) involve characters and situations encountered by Miss Cassidy in the first book, before being resolved in a manner that would leave both mother and Madam Ingram content with the resolution.
This is a story that starts with a mystery and ends with a mighty resolution that, of course, sets things up for the third part of the series.
Unlike the previous book, which is a linear tale mainly told from Miss Cassidy's viewpoint, this one is multilayered in both time (past and present) and with multiple viewpoints. It starts off with the first person viewpoint of Madam Ingram, who travels to Singapore to find Madam Kay (the daughter of Mr. Kay) for help with her ailment that has caused her to be labelled a madwoman in the west. The story then skips backwards in time as Madam Ingram starts recalling her past life with her mother and father, including events that she has strangely forgotten about.
The story then alternates with third person viewpoints from Miss Cassidy and Mr. Kay. As the story develops, it turns out that Miss Cassidy has encountered Madam Ingram and her mother in the past, while Mr. Kay is pulled into the half-world between the mortal and spiritual realms in an effort to resolve the mystery around a bizarre dancing spirit that may be related to Madam Ingram.
As the past (and present) slowly comes into focus for Madam Ingram, Miss Cassidy and Mr. Kay, it becomes apparent that they are facing a possessive and powerful spirit that wants her daughters to return to her and will not let Miss Cassidy (or others) get in her way. It would require all the help Madam Ingram can get from Miss Cassidy, Mr. Kay and others to face her mother and decide her own fate.
While the main tale is mysterious and grim in the telling, the atmosphere of the book itself is light-hearted and humorous, especially the bantering between Mr. Kay and Miss Cassidy. The goddesses featured in the book also inject some fun in the story via their interactions with Miss Cassidy. In this world, there are rules about how the various gods, goddesses and spirits can interact with each other and with the human world: breaking (or bending) the rules will eventually land Miss Cassidy in a lot of trouble.
By the end, the tale would involve journeys to the British Isles, France and India before returning to Singapore to focus on the final confrontation. It would also (somewhat unexpectedly) involve characters and situations encountered by Miss Cassidy in the first book, before being resolved in a manner that would leave both mother and Madam Ingram content with the resolution.
This is a story that starts with a mystery and ends with a mighty resolution that, of course, sets things up for the third part of the series.
September 10, 2026
Meihan Boey’s The Enigmatic Madam Ingram joined me for an early-morning coffee, and before I knew it I was bouncing between Singapore, Scotland, ghosts, goddesses, curses, and enough family secrets to make that coffee go cold. Thank you to Harper Perennial for the gifted copy. Have you ever started a book thinking you knew exactly what kind of story you were getting, only to realize a few chapters later that it was MUCH bigger than you expected?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Letty Ingram travels to Singapore believing something is terribly wrong with her, and that search eventually brings her into the wonderfully strange orbit of Miss Cassidy and Mr. Kay. What unfolds is part mystery, part historical fantasy, and part story about mothers, daughters, love, possession, and what happens when someone’s idea of loving you starts looking a whole lot more like controlling you.
There is a LOT happening here. The story moves through different time periods and places, with memories slowly coming back and pieces of Letty’s past beginning to connect. I’ll admit there were moments when I had to stop and mentally sort out where—and when—I was. This is definitely one of those books where casually skimming a page while thinking about your next cup of coffee is not recommended. 😂
But I loved the mixture of cultures, folklore, spirits, and mythology. Boey brings together Eastern and Western traditions in a way that made me want to look up several of the legends afterward. And amid all that supernatural chaos, Miss Cassidy and Mr. Kay were probably my favorite part. Their banter brings some much-needed humor when the story gets darker, and Mr. Kay’s ability to land himself in trouble while trying to help had me shaking my head more than once.
Underneath all the ghosts and magic, though, this really became a story about different kinds of love—especially the uncomfortable line between loving someone and refusing to let them go. That emotional piece ended up being what stayed with me most.
A wonderfully unusual historical fantasy with plenty of mystery, mythology, humor, and heart.
What’s a book that sent you down a rabbit hole looking up the history or folklore behind the story?
#TheEnigmaticMadamIngram #MeihanBoey #BookReview #HistoricalFantasy #FantasyBooks #Bookstagram #BookRecommendations #BooksCoffeeBrews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Letty Ingram travels to Singapore believing something is terribly wrong with her, and that search eventually brings her into the wonderfully strange orbit of Miss Cassidy and Mr. Kay. What unfolds is part mystery, part historical fantasy, and part story about mothers, daughters, love, possession, and what happens when someone’s idea of loving you starts looking a whole lot more like controlling you.
There is a LOT happening here. The story moves through different time periods and places, with memories slowly coming back and pieces of Letty’s past beginning to connect. I’ll admit there were moments when I had to stop and mentally sort out where—and when—I was. This is definitely one of those books where casually skimming a page while thinking about your next cup of coffee is not recommended. 😂
But I loved the mixture of cultures, folklore, spirits, and mythology. Boey brings together Eastern and Western traditions in a way that made me want to look up several of the legends afterward. And amid all that supernatural chaos, Miss Cassidy and Mr. Kay were probably my favorite part. Their banter brings some much-needed humor when the story gets darker, and Mr. Kay’s ability to land himself in trouble while trying to help had me shaking my head more than once.
Underneath all the ghosts and magic, though, this really became a story about different kinds of love—especially the uncomfortable line between loving someone and refusing to let them go. That emotional piece ended up being what stayed with me most.
A wonderfully unusual historical fantasy with plenty of mystery, mythology, humor, and heart.
What’s a book that sent you down a rabbit hole looking up the history or folklore behind the story?
#TheEnigmaticMadamIngram #MeihanBoey #BookReview #HistoricalFantasy #FantasyBooks #Bookstagram #BookRecommendations #BooksCoffeeBrews
June 5, 2026
The Enigmatic Madam Ingram by Meihan Boey and Narrated by Paula Masterto is a vast story tied up into a gorgeous novel of myths and legends, magic and mystery all balanced over multiple timelines
The narration by Paula Masterto is excellent, especially with being faced with a wide cast and diferent cultural and geographical references and dialogues. Nasterto's timbre is velvety and well suited to the narrative
*Note, I will be reading book 1 - The Formidable Miss Cassidy after this but this book is eually surefooted as a standalone
Letty Ingram travels to Singapore to find the formidable Miss Cassidy to free her from her childhood curse which has tormented her into adulthood. It is only when she is overtaken by an "episode" that Miss K and her father establish clarify what is very, very secial about Miss Cassidy and how she can help
This is a stunning story, full of magic and mystery (I loved the Seelie/ puppy encounter - so well done) yet it also acknowledges social themes of intolerance of other cultures in turn of the century soceit. The book travels from as far away as a child's imagination, to Scotland, Singapore, London and Paris, each having the metropolilatan and magical layers, light and dark
I absolutely loved this audiobook and it has encouraged me to get the series in print as it is utterly enthralling and thoroughly enjoyable. This book would appeal to readers of any genre, from Romanatsy to Cosy Mystery, Fantasy, Historical Fiction and beyond
Thank you to Netgalley, the author, narrator and Bolinda audio for this stunning ALC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
The narration by Paula Masterto is excellent, especially with being faced with a wide cast and diferent cultural and geographical references and dialogues. Nasterto's timbre is velvety and well suited to the narrative
*Note, I will be reading book 1 - The Formidable Miss Cassidy after this but this book is eually surefooted as a standalone
Letty Ingram travels to Singapore to find the formidable Miss Cassidy to free her from her childhood curse which has tormented her into adulthood. It is only when she is overtaken by an "episode" that Miss K and her father establish clarify what is very, very secial about Miss Cassidy and how she can help
This is a stunning story, full of magic and mystery (I loved the Seelie/ puppy encounter - so well done) yet it also acknowledges social themes of intolerance of other cultures in turn of the century soceit. The book travels from as far away as a child's imagination, to Scotland, Singapore, London and Paris, each having the metropolilatan and magical layers, light and dark
I absolutely loved this audiobook and it has encouraged me to get the series in print as it is utterly enthralling and thoroughly enjoyable. This book would appeal to readers of any genre, from Romanatsy to Cosy Mystery, Fantasy, Historical Fiction and beyond
Thank you to Netgalley, the author, narrator and Bolinda audio for this stunning ALC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
September 21, 2026
I absolutely adored The Formidable Miss Cassidy, so I was excited to dive into this book. I hadn't read a full synopsis, so by the title I expected this to be about a new character but set in the same world with maybe a cameo or two of characters from the previous book. I'm so glad I was wrong.
While the main character is new, the supporting cast is full of our favorite characters from the first installment. Miss Cassidy herself plays a very large role, with Mr. Kay following. I was also very excited to see our favorite twins again, as they were my favorites in the first book and I loved getting to see how they had settled into their adult lives.
Like the first book, The Enigmatic Madam Ingram is a perfect mix of darkness and whimsy. There's a wonderfully diverse cast of humans and non-humans alike, and you're sure to come away having learned about at least one new character from mythology.
The stakes felt higher in this book, and the plot was much more succinct rather than the vignette style of storytelling in the previous volume. It was full of mystery, and the slow way that Letty's past is revealed to the reader kept me absolutely hooked.
At it's heart, this story was about sisterhood, and I was touched by every show of affection between the women in the novel. It really illustrated the strength of women and the ways we are always willing to support each other.
I loved this book just as much if not more than the first one, and I can't wait to read the third one and see how Miss Cassidy and Mr. Kay's story might wrap up.
Thank you to Harper Perennial and Netgalley for the ARC.
While the main character is new, the supporting cast is full of our favorite characters from the first installment. Miss Cassidy herself plays a very large role, with Mr. Kay following. I was also very excited to see our favorite twins again, as they were my favorites in the first book and I loved getting to see how they had settled into their adult lives.
Like the first book, The Enigmatic Madam Ingram is a perfect mix of darkness and whimsy. There's a wonderfully diverse cast of humans and non-humans alike, and you're sure to come away having learned about at least one new character from mythology.
The stakes felt higher in this book, and the plot was much more succinct rather than the vignette style of storytelling in the previous volume. It was full of mystery, and the slow way that Letty's past is revealed to the reader kept me absolutely hooked.
At it's heart, this story was about sisterhood, and I was touched by every show of affection between the women in the novel. It really illustrated the strength of women and the ways we are always willing to support each other.
I loved this book just as much if not more than the first one, and I can't wait to read the third one and see how Miss Cassidy and Mr. Kay's story might wrap up.
Thank you to Harper Perennial and Netgalley for the ARC.
September 8, 2026
Meihan Boey's The Enigmatic Madam Ingram is an engaging blend of mystery, history, and rich character work. From the opening chapters, the novel draws readers into a fascinating world filled with secrets, intrigue, and layered personalities, all anchored by the mysterious presence of Madam Ingram herself.
One of the book's standout strengths is its atmosphere. Boey brings the setting to life with vivid descriptions and careful attention to historical detail, creating a world that feels immersive without becoming overwhelming. The mystery unfolds at a satisfying pace, revealing clues gradually while maintaining suspense and keeping readers invested in the outcome.
The characters are another highlight. Madam Ingram is a particularly compelling figure, balancing intelligence, complexity, and mystery in a way that makes her difficult to forget. The supporting cast adds depth to the story and helps sustain interest throughout the novel.
While the book is highly enjoyable, there are moments where the pacing slows, and a few plot developments could have been explored in greater detail. However, these are relatively minor concerns in an otherwise strong and entertaining story.
Fans of historical fiction, literary mysteries, and character-driven narratives will find much to appreciate in The Enigmatic Madam Ingram. It is a thoughtful and well-crafted novel that combines intrigue with emotional depth.
One of the book's standout strengths is its atmosphere. Boey brings the setting to life with vivid descriptions and careful attention to historical detail, creating a world that feels immersive without becoming overwhelming. The mystery unfolds at a satisfying pace, revealing clues gradually while maintaining suspense and keeping readers invested in the outcome.
The characters are another highlight. Madam Ingram is a particularly compelling figure, balancing intelligence, complexity, and mystery in a way that makes her difficult to forget. The supporting cast adds depth to the story and helps sustain interest throughout the novel.
While the book is highly enjoyable, there are moments where the pacing slows, and a few plot developments could have been explored in greater detail. However, these are relatively minor concerns in an otherwise strong and entertaining story.
Fans of historical fiction, literary mysteries, and character-driven narratives will find much to appreciate in The Enigmatic Madam Ingram. It is a thoughtful and well-crafted novel that combines intrigue with emotional depth.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Isn't this cover gorgeous??
Reposting my review. Re-read and yes, I know book 3 is out but I cannot bear to end this trilogy.. so I am holding onnnnn for nowwwww... also holding out for the audiobook so I can read and listen together.
Book 100 of 365 ~ 2026
Book 298 of 350 ~ 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
@mei_the_force - How very dare you be so frigging talented and produce such a brilliant follow-up! *mindblown*
I inhaled this. Then life got in the way which annoyed the crap out of me and today I went home early and ploughed through the rest.
the characters are well developed IMHO and I am TOTALLY OBSESSED WITH @formidablemisscassidy AND MR KAY.
As per the first book, I read and listened to the book - @misspolly1998 is indeed perfection! Every character is richly brought to life by this talented narrator.
#book298of350 @harpercollinsinternational @formidablemisscassidy #amreading #singlit #tbrpile #instareads readstagram reading bookreview bookreviewer booklover booksAreLife booksForTheWin booknerds thisbookfairyisreading bookstagram bookstagrammer bookstagramfeature bookshelf booksofinstagram bookish bookworm goodreads booklovers bookaddict theSGbookfairyReads theSGtrekkiereads bookaholic bookchallenge2025 reviews lovebooks
Reposting my review. Re-read and yes, I know book 3 is out but I cannot bear to end this trilogy.. so I am holding onnnnn for nowwwww... also holding out for the audiobook so I can read and listen together.
Book 100 of 365 ~ 2026
Book 298 of 350 ~ 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
@mei_the_force - How very dare you be so frigging talented and produce such a brilliant follow-up! *mindblown*
I inhaled this. Then life got in the way which annoyed the crap out of me and today I went home early and ploughed through the rest.
the characters are well developed IMHO and I am TOTALLY OBSESSED WITH @formidablemisscassidy AND MR KAY.
As per the first book, I read and listened to the book - @misspolly1998 is indeed perfection! Every character is richly brought to life by this talented narrator.
#book298of350 @harpercollinsinternational @formidablemisscassidy #amreading #singlit #tbrpile #instareads readstagram reading bookreview bookreviewer booklover booksAreLife booksForTheWin booknerds thisbookfairyisreading bookstagram bookstagrammer bookstagramfeature bookshelf booksofinstagram bookish bookworm goodreads booklovers bookaddict theSGbookfairyReads theSGtrekkiereads bookaholic bookchallenge2025 reviews lovebooks
June 14, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Perennial for an advance reading copy of this book.
Rating:
Plot: 5 stars. Complex, but balanced, loose ends tied up, except for an appropriate what’s next?
Characters: 4 stars. The major characters, Miss Cassidy, Mr. Kay, Madam Ingram, are fully inhabited, as much as semi-mystical beings can inhabit a human form. The next tier, Mr. Kay’s daughters, the various deities, Aminah, are less fully developed. They serve roles and are constrained by those roles. The various spirits and shades come and go, giving their messages, providing aid if they can.
Overall: 5 stars
The Intrepid Miss Cassidy, first in this series, was a charming introduction to the world of spirits in Singapore. For a novel set in a world with ghosts and ghost series, it was remarkably straightforward.
The Enigmatic Madam Ingram is at a whole different level of subtlety and complexity. We are back in Singapore and Scotland, but we move forward and back in time, sometimes in Scotland, sometimes in London, sometimes in Singapore.
The complex plot is revealed slowly, with the actions of each character becoming clearer and clearer as we wind our way through the story.
I loved how various traditional aspects of both Malaysia and western mythology were woven (literally and figuratively) together.
The secrets of the characters and the way those secrets are slowly revealed is integral to the plot, so no spoilers.
I thought The Intrepid Miss Cassidy was delightful. I think The Enigmatic Madam Ingram is exponentially better.
Rating:
Plot: 5 stars. Complex, but balanced, loose ends tied up, except for an appropriate what’s next?
Characters: 4 stars. The major characters, Miss Cassidy, Mr. Kay, Madam Ingram, are fully inhabited, as much as semi-mystical beings can inhabit a human form. The next tier, Mr. Kay’s daughters, the various deities, Aminah, are less fully developed. They serve roles and are constrained by those roles. The various spirits and shades come and go, giving their messages, providing aid if they can.
Overall: 5 stars
The Intrepid Miss Cassidy, first in this series, was a charming introduction to the world of spirits in Singapore. For a novel set in a world with ghosts and ghost series, it was remarkably straightforward.
The Enigmatic Madam Ingram is at a whole different level of subtlety and complexity. We are back in Singapore and Scotland, but we move forward and back in time, sometimes in Scotland, sometimes in London, sometimes in Singapore.
The complex plot is revealed slowly, with the actions of each character becoming clearer and clearer as we wind our way through the story.
I loved how various traditional aspects of both Malaysia and western mythology were woven (literally and figuratively) together.
The secrets of the characters and the way those secrets are slowly revealed is integral to the plot, so no spoilers.
I thought The Intrepid Miss Cassidy was delightful. I think The Enigmatic Madam Ingram is exponentially better.
September 16, 2026
Letty Ingram, a mysterious woman even to herself, arrives in 1906 Singapore in search of help from the renowned medium Madame Kay. As the Kay sisters search for ways to help Letty their father, and then Miss Cassidy, become involved in a mystery that spans the world over several decades and involves god and goddesses from several pantheons.
The first book, The Formidable Miss Cassidy, was a pretty straightforward ghost mystery with a bit of Western supernatural beings tossed in. This current book is a bit more complex with a plot that skips back and forth in time as well as characters that slip in and out of other dimensions. I really like the characters, and the fact we can look forward to a third book focusing on Mr Kay is something I look forward to. That said, I will admit I had a bit of difficulty understanding the nuances of the various demons, demigods, and gods that were an integral part of Letty’s story as I am not as familiar with folklore of the East as I am with the West. Even though I recognized only a few of them I still found the story compelling as we learn more about Letty and how she and Miss Cassidy are connected. As noted, I look forward to the next book. Recommended
The first book, The Formidable Miss Cassidy, was a pretty straightforward ghost mystery with a bit of Western supernatural beings tossed in. This current book is a bit more complex with a plot that skips back and forth in time as well as characters that slip in and out of other dimensions. I really like the characters, and the fact we can look forward to a third book focusing on Mr Kay is something I look forward to. That said, I will admit I had a bit of difficulty understanding the nuances of the various demons, demigods, and gods that were an integral part of Letty’s story as I am not as familiar with folklore of the East as I am with the West. Even though I recognized only a few of them I still found the story compelling as we learn more about Letty and how she and Miss Cassidy are connected. As noted, I look forward to the next book. Recommended
September 25, 2026
* Many new characters. Many V E R Y creepy [one has spiders for eyes and they crawl out and all over her face *SHUDDER*, and do NOT even get me started on how one of the characters gives birth....EEK!!]. While I loved the new characters [even the creepy ones], keeping up with them all was confusing at times, and I wish I had made a list as we went on. I will do that next time [because there WILL be a next time].
* The world-building in this one was absolutely glorious. The author really brings old-world Singapore to life and I often felt I was right there with the characters. Honestly, this was some of the best world-building I have seen in a book in a very long time, and it made me love the book even more.
* The ending was V E R Y satisfying all while [sort of] prepping us for book 3, which, in my opinion, needs to be written ASAP. ;-)
This has been a really great series so far [one I am really glad I took a chance on], and I highly recommend it to any fantasy reader.
Thank you to NetGalley, Meihan Boey, and Harper Perennial and Paperbacks/Harper Perennial for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
* The world-building in this one was absolutely glorious. The author really brings old-world Singapore to life and I often felt I was right there with the characters. Honestly, this was some of the best world-building I have seen in a book in a very long time, and it made me love the book even more.
* The ending was V E R Y satisfying all while [sort of] prepping us for book 3, which, in my opinion, needs to be written ASAP. ;-)
This has been a really great series so far [one I am really glad I took a chance on], and I highly recommend it to any fantasy reader.
Thank you to NetGalley, Meihan Boey, and Harper Perennial and Paperbacks/Harper Perennial for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy
Uh, Goodreads this book came out in June.
And it's absolutely brilliant. It kept me up til the wee hours utterly enraptured in unraveling the mystery of the enigmatic Letty Ingram. She believes she's mad but of course this is a Miss Cassidy story so she is far from mad but she is trapped in a curse one that in fact has everything to do with all of Miss Cassidy's misadventures since she first left Scotland 50 years ago.
Mr Kay and the Kay twins return and between the twins, Mr Kay - who gets himself into all sorts of delightful trouble through stubbornness and love, and of course the formidable (😉) Miss Cassidy prepare to whirled back and forth from Singapore to London, London to the Scottish Highlands and the liminal world's between time and spaces they uncover Letty's lost memories.
Who is Bungdarah and what danger is she to Letty and those she loves?
Now if only my broke self can find a way to get my hands on the final story. I need more Mr Kay shenanigans and more Miss Cassidy being extremely, but affectionately, exasperated by his antics.
And it's absolutely brilliant. It kept me up til the wee hours utterly enraptured in unraveling the mystery of the enigmatic Letty Ingram. She believes she's mad but of course this is a Miss Cassidy story so she is far from mad but she is trapped in a curse one that in fact has everything to do with all of Miss Cassidy's misadventures since she first left Scotland 50 years ago.
Mr Kay and the Kay twins return and between the twins, Mr Kay - who gets himself into all sorts of delightful trouble through stubbornness and love, and of course the formidable (😉) Miss Cassidy prepare to whirled back and forth from Singapore to London, London to the Scottish Highlands and the liminal world's between time and spaces they uncover Letty's lost memories.
Who is Bungdarah and what danger is she to Letty and those she loves?
Now if only my broke self can find a way to get my hands on the final story. I need more Mr Kay shenanigans and more Miss Cassidy being extremely, but affectionately, exasperated by his antics.
Review of advance copy
This read a little more like a slow cozy fantasy with a lot of heart and a light sprinkling of ghosts / local lore (with a tiny dab of irish).
The story meanders (could it be tighter, sure, but also the meandering was still fine), and it does utlimately get where its supposed to as each bit builds towards the conclusion.
We get to see the Kay twins again, with new characters (who are the MC this time round) and of course Mr Kay (and he deserved what he had coming too! Tsk tsk!) And Miss Cassidy.
Loved how the other deities get mentioned (the brief mention of all the ladies and their little disagreements during TeaTime had me grinning, as thats the last thing you expect out of legends).
And the ending? Oh my heart. I mean if everyone spoke and went for therapy (ahaha that would be a cute premise, I think) this story would have turned out differently. I loved how everything tied together in the end. All in all, tis was a tale of the different aspects of love, and chock full of compassion.
The story meanders (could it be tighter, sure, but also the meandering was still fine), and it does utlimately get where its supposed to as each bit builds towards the conclusion.
We get to see the Kay twins again, with new characters (who are the MC this time round) and of course Mr Kay (and he deserved what he had coming too! Tsk tsk!) And Miss Cassidy.
Loved how the other deities get mentioned (the brief mention of all the ladies and their little disagreements during TeaTime had me grinning, as thats the last thing you expect out of legends).
And the ending? Oh my heart. I mean if everyone spoke and went for therapy (ahaha that would be a cute premise, I think) this story would have turned out differently. I loved how everything tied together in the end. All in all, tis was a tale of the different aspects of love, and chock full of compassion.
June 5, 2024
Surprised that there actually is a book 2 and that it is thicker than book 1. Despite very much interested to read further developments between Mr Kay and Miss Cassidy, series always make me apprehensive, will it be better than its predecessor? As the benchmark is already set high. Then it is thicker, which is ominous. Is the author and team trying to milk the success of the first book by adding unnecessary pages? So here's what I find.....
It's like the Mathematics problem sums in Singapore Primary school. The same format, just replace the numbers!
Honestly, the mystery is cleverly created so it is a page turner like the first. The mix of magical and mythical beings is exactly the same as the first which made it rather staid.
Then, it gets tricky to carry the plot when the dead don't stay dead! When the threads get tangled up, the story falls apart. So this one is on the verge. Hopefully book 3 will not be a failure.
It's like the Mathematics problem sums in Singapore Primary school. The same format, just replace the numbers!
Honestly, the mystery is cleverly created so it is a page turner like the first. The mix of magical and mythical beings is exactly the same as the first which made it rather staid.
Then, it gets tricky to carry the plot when the dead don't stay dead! When the threads get tangled up, the story falls apart. So this one is on the verge. Hopefully book 3 will not be a failure.
July 12, 2025
I picked this book up after reading the 1st part of the trilogy - The Formidable Miss Cassidy - and thought to myself that it would be hard to top that. I was wrong. The Enigmatic Madam Ingram expands upon the colonial Malaya / Scotland multiverse by bringing us to India, Paris and London. Old characters come back (mostly as ghosts) but there are some fresh faces which add to the plot. My only complaint would be that it dovetails a bit too nicely at some parts - for one the Cik Pon that they caught at Bendemeer House is also somehow related to the new spirit in this book? A little too.. convenient. My favourite character here is Billy Bronn - seems the kindest character in the book that is just swept away by the whole narrative. But anyway I don't want to spoil the book for you, it's still a fantastic read nonetheless. Am looking forward to the Mystical Mr Kay and I hope that the author doesn't jump the shark!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2026
The Enigmatic Miss Ingram by Meihan Boey is a cleverly written novel that beautifully intertwines myth and magic against the rich backdrop of historical Singapore. One of its greatest strengths lies in how Boey breathes depth into her characters, so much so that even the supposed monsters of folklore carry an unexpected emotional weight.
Her prose is elegant and evocative, making the world feel immersive and alive. However, the multi-layered storytelling, especially with its frequent shifts through flashbacks, can at times be difficult to follow. I occasionally found myself a little lost in the structure, though that may simply come down to my own inability to focus rather than a flaw in the writing itself.
Overall, it’s a beautifully crafted and imaginative read, elevated by Boey’s lyrical style and her ability to humanise even the most mythical of beings. I was eager to read this after devouring the first in the series, and now I look forward with great anticipation to #3
Her prose is elegant and evocative, making the world feel immersive and alive. However, the multi-layered storytelling, especially with its frequent shifts through flashbacks, can at times be difficult to follow. I occasionally found myself a little lost in the structure, though that may simply come down to my own inability to focus rather than a flaw in the writing itself.
Overall, it’s a beautifully crafted and imaginative read, elevated by Boey’s lyrical style and her ability to humanise even the most mythical of beings. I was eager to read this after devouring the first in the series, and now I look forward with great anticipation to #3
June 5, 2026
I had read the previous book and enjoyed it. This definitely helped in follow the story.
A different style of fantasy story. Fantasy set in the late 1800s through to early 1900s. The story ranges between highland Scotland all the way to Singapore and beyond; with deities, at least once multitudinous deities, of all kinds involved. A story of absolute love, and what is certainly not love, but instead selfishness.
Miss Cassidy is up to her helping ways again, but has got herself into a bit of a situation. Trying to help has caused problems, that’s she’s now trying to sort out. With Mr Kay trying to looking out for her as well. The tangles are certainly going to be difficult to tease out. Bargains made must be completed.
Thank you to Bolinda Audio and NetGalley for the audio ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
A different style of fantasy story. Fantasy set in the late 1800s through to early 1900s. The story ranges between highland Scotland all the way to Singapore and beyond; with deities, at least once multitudinous deities, of all kinds involved. A story of absolute love, and what is certainly not love, but instead selfishness.
Miss Cassidy is up to her helping ways again, but has got herself into a bit of a situation. Trying to help has caused problems, that’s she’s now trying to sort out. With Mr Kay trying to looking out for her as well. The tangles are certainly going to be difficult to tease out. Bargains made must be completed.
Thank you to Bolinda Audio and NetGalley for the audio ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
Review of advance copy
I can sum up my opinion of this book with one word: Hunh????
A fluent knowledge of Malaysian is required to read this book. As I do most of my reading while on an elliptical, I obviously did not have access to a translation application, so I spent a lot of time going "what was that all about"?
Most of the main characters have three names. Use of names was not consistent. I kept having to go "who was that again? what was their relationship to the other characters? What was I supposed to know about this character?".
POV (Point of view) changed frequently. Frequently a new chapter started with "I". I am not so naive as to assume that the name including in the chapter heading was the narrator for that chapter so I had to spend a considerable amount of time figuring out who "I" was.
Subplots seemed to come and go randomly without resolution.
A fluent knowledge of Malaysian is required to read this book. As I do most of my reading while on an elliptical, I obviously did not have access to a translation application, so I spent a lot of time going "what was that all about"?
Most of the main characters have three names. Use of names was not consistent. I kept having to go "who was that again? what was their relationship to the other characters? What was I supposed to know about this character?".
POV (Point of view) changed frequently. Frequently a new chapter started with "I". I am not so naive as to assume that the name including in the chapter heading was the narrator for that chapter so I had to spend a considerable amount of time figuring out who "I" was.
Subplots seemed to come and go randomly without resolution.
October 7, 2024
This is one of those books I stumbled onto through the "available now" filter, and I'm so glad that I did. It absolutely stands on its own merits (although now I certainly want to read its prequel!) as it combines traditions and gods from multiple cultures to weave a story about love, and being human, and the resultant (self-)destructive tendencies of both. Reminiscent of American Gods in that certain gods, big and small, are dislocated, and in that certain characters, despite attempts to the contrary, are not as deep as they appear at first glance, The Enigmatic Madam Ingram is nevertheless very much its own tale with some eminently lovable folks in it. I quite enjoyed the narrator as well.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
(Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the complimentary ARC; all opinions mine.)
After really enjoying the first book in this Miss Cassidy series by Meihan Boey, I was excited to check out book 2. Like book 1, this book is unpredictable, with lots of twists and turns and drama with our brave and powerful heroine Miss Cassidy. I really love when I'm reading a book where a heroine is facing difficulties, but you just know she is more than up for the challenge; it's so comforting. While there's a lot to appreciate about this book, I found myself bothered by the blips in the story--some aspects just don't feel fully cohesive. Overall, I didn't feel as much momentum with book 2. I'd still recommend trying the series if you're into any of the above; your mileage might vary with book 2!
After really enjoying the first book in this Miss Cassidy series by Meihan Boey, I was excited to check out book 2. Like book 1, this book is unpredictable, with lots of twists and turns and drama with our brave and powerful heroine Miss Cassidy. I really love when I'm reading a book where a heroine is facing difficulties, but you just know she is more than up for the challenge; it's so comforting. While there's a lot to appreciate about this book, I found myself bothered by the blips in the story--some aspects just don't feel fully cohesive. Overall, I didn't feel as much momentum with book 2. I'd still recommend trying the series if you're into any of the above; your mileage might vary with book 2!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
was provided with an advanced listener copy of this work from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review. The Narration for this work is excellent and I am pleased to say that it is the same as the first book so that the characters we are familiar with all sound like they should. The new ones have their own manners of speaking and voices which makes it easy to tell who is talking at any given time.
I was thoroughly pleased to see this book and very excited to see if Miss Cassidy ever got to see and speak with Mr. Kay and his daughters ever again. Getting to know The Lady Letty Ingram was also wonderful.
The story is beautifully done and so well written I loved every moment of this read and can not wait for the next in the series they are enchanting tales.
I was thoroughly pleased to see this book and very excited to see if Miss Cassidy ever got to see and speak with Mr. Kay and his daughters ever again. Getting to know The Lady Letty Ingram was also wonderful.
The story is beautifully done and so well written I loved every moment of this read and can not wait for the next in the series they are enchanting tales.
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