Taken in Nuala

The Inspector de Silva Mysteries #8

by Harriet Steel

When an American millionaire and his glamorous daughter visit Nuala, the splendour they bring to the town’s high society is soon tragically tarnished by a vicious crime.

With many avenues of inquiry to follow, including the involvement of a mysterious fortune teller, Inspector de Silva will need all his resources, including the help of his British wife, Jane, to unravel the evidence and avert further disaster.

A gripping mystery with lots of twists and turns set in the colourful and fascinating world of 1930s Ceylon.

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Crime, Fiction, Historical, Historical Mystery

224 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 18, 2020

About the author

Harriet Steel wrote several historical novels before turning to crime with the Inspector de Silva mysteries, inspired by time spent in Sri Lanka (the former Ceylon)). Her work has also appeared in national newspapers and magazines. Visit her website, https://harrietsteel.com/ to sign up to her monthly newsletter for information on new releases and offers.
Harriet is married with two daughters and lives in Surrey. When she’s not writing, she likes reading, long walks and visiting art galleries and museums.

Reviews

[Phrynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The eighth book in this delightful series and we find Inspector Shanti De Silva and his wife Jane at an elegant dinner at the Residence. This is in the 1930's when Hitler was on the rise in Europe and India was discussing independence. Here in Ceylon life goes on in a land of English rule, wealthy foreigners and in this book - kidnapping and murder.

I am not sure why but from a very early age I loved the word Ceylon. To me it was a magical place I wanted very much to visit and on the pages of the books in this series it meets all my expectations. Since then I have really been there, or to Sri Lanka as it is now, and up in the mountains in the tea fields where they make Ceylon tea it actually is magical. I was not disappointed.

Anyway, back to the book. I love the characters, especially Shanti and Jane and the comments about Shanti's favourite curries always make me hungry. The mystery is intriguing and I guessed the perpetrator totally wrongly. Big fail on my part - I usually do much better than that. Overall, I loved the book and I give it five stars.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read all of the books in this fine historical series with its unique setting and distinctive characters whilst being faithful to the time period. Harriet Steel has delivered yet another winner.

A festive opening introduces the players at a party held by the Clutterbucks, a fundraiser for an orphanage. De Silva and wife Jane arrive in their Morris and were impressed with the banks of flowers and lights, "'It feels like Christmas,' remarked de Silva."

Guests new to them included a wealthy British couple with a daughter Phoebe, the Tankertons, who had been traveling the world and another younger American couple with a teenage daughter Marie coming from the Crown Hotel to stay a few days with the Clutterbucks, the O'Hallorans. It is soon revealed that the two young women had made a trip into town to visit a fortune teller and it seemed that young Phoebe was enlivened by her association with Marie.

Dinner leads to a lively session of dancing and music including a piano session performed by the American. The gaiety of the evening is interrupted by screams from Phoebe revealing a kidnapping of Marie. The Tankertons had with them an ex-military man, Patterson, who provided security for their daughter to prevent kidnapping so he was asked to help de Silva and others try to find the perpetrators.

The ensuing investigation is coordinated by de Silva as appropriate to the time period including long waits for information in every direction, dogged surveillance over long periods and several opportunities for de Silva's team to perform faithfully.

Kindle Unlimited

[Kathy]

I am forced to read through this book a second time because for some reason I did not mark it "read" and yet it was. Now as I skim through I recall the two young "debs" at a party at the big house. Ok...well, now I remember a few tidbits that include deception and strychnine. I will say no more.
I usually like these books, so I guess that is why I neglected to mark this one was read.


Kindle Unlimited

[Cathy Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A grand party is taking place at The Residence, hosted by the assistant government agent and Inspector Shanti de Silva’s superior, Archie Clutterbuck and his wife, Florence, raising funds for the orphanage and introducing their American guests, the Tankertons and their daughter, Phoebe. Inspector de Silva and his wife Jane join the list of invitees. Also staying at The Residence is Hank O’Halloran and his daughter Marie.

During the festivities Marie O’Halloran is kidnapped and the party comes to an abrupt halt. The guests are questioned before leaving, while de Silva makes it his business to discover how the perpetrator was able to gain access to the house, evade security measures and take Marie, seemingly so easily. He wondered why the kidnapper chose Marie. Both men were wealthy but Tankerton even more so, and would be able to pay a larger ransom. It was clear to de Silva there was more to this than meets the eye.

De Silva has his work cut out with kidnappings and murder, a suspicious fortune teller and several trails to follow, ably assisted by Sergeant Prasanna and Constable Nadar. Insight from Jane is always welcome as well. Some surprise twists keep the plot moving along. As always, the wonderfully described setting of 1930’s Ceylon is detailed, capturing the sense of place and time, and the contrast between the cultures adds an extra layer to the stories. Shanti and Jane de Silva are well portrayed, engaging characters and work well together. I like how Jane fits in with the English side of society and also as the wife of a Sinhalese Police Inspector with perfect ease. De Silva adores his wife, loves his garden, good food and his car. He sometimes takes exception to interference in his work by his British superiors.

I enjoy return visits to Nuala, the de Silva’s calm and well ordered home life and beautiful garden. Not to mention the delicious sounding meals cook prepares. If only…

I chose to read and review Taken in Nuala for Rosie Amber’s book review team based on a copy kindly supplied by the author.

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

While Hitler and his Nazi party are making the British uneasy and there is talk of India becoming independent, Inspector de Silva has his hands full with local affairs and a clever, ruthless kidnapper. Once again, I was transported to Ceylon of the 1930's and on the hunt with a wonderful cast of characters.

Shanti de Silva is a veteran police detective and he quietly questions, sifts evidence, and puts up those who would ignorantly treat him as a local though he has earned the respect of the district British leadership and has their backing. Shanti works out that there may be more to the kidnapping, ransom, and murder including the possibility that some local crimes are not unrelated. I loved that his wife Jane gets to help in his detecting as do several of the regular characters. Jane has a fun secret that gets Shanti jumping at shadows. And, there were some exciting moments to heighten the suspense.

One of the best parts of this series is the local color and the author didn't stint on serving up more parts to Nuala and it's diverse traditions as well as a good picture of local 1930's life.

Now, the mystery was a piece of cake for me. I suspected from the beginning who and what was really going on and didn't get startled in the twists until nearly the end when something further came out about the culprit. I was intrigued to see Shanti work it out and gain the proof.

In summary, it was another quick historical mystery from a sensational series that I'm always eager for the newest installment. Those who enjoy historical mysteries set in possibly exotic locations should definitely give this series a go.

[Penelope · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY RATING GUIDE: 5 Stars. TAKEN IN NUALA was a truly satisfying mystery which kept me guessing through til the end. I am really enjoying this series which visits another time and place (rather like time travel. :D). The lovely book covers caught my attention in the beginning yet the stories meet my combined love for adventure, mystery and exotic travel with truly enjoyable characters as well. Well done! I look forward to the next adventure in Nuala and highly recommend it to the below, noted, readers.

1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/fairly good & might or might not read it again; 3.5= I enjoyed it & might read it again; 4= I liked it a lot & would read it again; 5= I LOVED THIS; it was great! & most likely will read again (I SELDOM give 5 Stars).

Nuala, the hill country of Ceylon, Mid/late 1930’s ~
Inspector de Silva, his two superiors and certain members of the Ceylonese police force are alarmed when the adult daughter of an American millionaire is kidnapped during the family’s stop in Ceylon toward the end of their worldwide travels. The young lady is taken during a dinner party held at the assistant government agent’s home (the head of local police) in Nuala. The young American lady and her father were among a number of esteemed guests present at the time. Appalled by the crime, de Silva and his superiors are disappointed when the lady’s father insists that he wants no interference by the police. He will pay any ransom to get his daughter back. The police must hold off all pursuit until afterward. Yet even with such caution, the situation quickly grows worse.

Comments ~
1) The Inspector deSilva Mystery series is set in Ceylon/Sri Lanka, Mid/late 1930’s. I imagine it is possible to read the books as Standalone titles but certain secondary characters & relationships (deSilva’s colleagues and families) feature in each book and continually develop over time. I prefer beginning with bk1, TROUBLE IN NUALA, as this is such a fun (Cozy) series it would be a shame to miss out.
2) The period setting for the Inspector deSilva series overlaps other Historical mysteries I read (ie., Eliz Peters’ Amelia Peabody, Dorothy Sayers’ Lord Peter Wimsey). I find details occurring in Ceylon, a British Colony at this time, interesting as certain historical events and societal elements coincide with these other series.
3) I like and enjoy the character, Inspector deSilva. I can identify with his preference for zesty rather than bland food, his reluctance to “dress up” for public occasions (in the humid heat!) and emphasize with certain social situations he must accept - occasionally awkward (the social politics necessary as a Ceylonese inspector in a country ruled by the rather “pompous” British government officials). DeSilva’s character, especially as performed by voice artist Davies in bks 1-4, reminds me of Peter Falk in his televised role as Columbo (1968-1978+), a very likable man, with a tongue-in-cheek, understated persona. Likewise, DeSilva is a quiet, “seemingly” plodding Inspector. In reality, he is patient, thorough, observant, intuitive and (by necessity) tolerant of his (occasionally) condescending superiors. I find this series a restful and truly entertaining read - a very pleasant escape to another place and time. Virtual time travel, in a sense. I look forward to reading the next books in this series.
4) Only the first 4 books in this series are available as autobooks. The performances by Matthew Lloyd Davies are delightful and I highly recommend them! I am finishing the series through the digital version which I have pre-purchased through book 10.
5) I was recently sharing the period, setting and favorite aspects of this series to my husband when I again realized how much I enjoy it for its uniqueness. Often I am encouraged to search for certain locations and settings or historical accounts and/or people, as I read. I am certain I will revisit the entire series after I have finished. I heartily recommend Steel’s Inspector deSilva Mystery series to readers who enjoy:
> Classic British Mysteries.
> British Mysteries set during the 1920’s-1940’s.
> Historical British Mysteries set in Colonial settings.
> Mysteries set in unique locales.
> Cozy Mysteries (slower paced with adventures, Clean format & likable MCs).
> Seasoned main characters (who are surprisingly amicably married).
> Police Procedural mysteries.
> Historical Mysteries.
> Mysteries with historical, cultural and literature “goose eggs.”

READER CAUTIONS ~
PROFANITY - None.
VIOLENCE - This is a Cozy Murder Mystery. Deaths not depicted in dark or graphic detail.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None.

[Jaffareadstoo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whenever I step back in time to 1930s Ceylon in the company of Inspector de Silva and his lovely wife, Jane, I know that I am in for a real treat, as not only is the history of the time beautifully recreated, but also I know that there will be a sharp mystery for the intrepid Inspector to solve.

Taken In Nuala focuses on a mystery surrounding the daughter a wealthy American businessman and from the very start it is obvious that there is more to this investigation than at first appears. The Inspector and his associates have to get to grips with a particularly intricate crime and as always it's fascinating to see the Inspector working alongside all the regular characters we have come to love and appreciate from reading the other novels in the series.

For those who haven't read the series, and Taken in Nuala is now the eight book, each story can be read as a standalone mystery as the author includes, at the start of the book, a useful description of each of the major characters. That Inspector Shanti de Silva is the star of the series is without question, his attention to even the smallest detail of the crime ensures that there is no stone unturned in his quest for justice. His lovely wife, Jane, is the still small voice of calm in Shanti's world as she helps him make sense of the complicated crimes he invariably gets drawn into, but it is the homely interludes between them which work so well, along with the sumptuous descriptions of Shanti's favourite meals and his beautiful garden.

This series really has caught my imagination and I look forward to the next story in this cosy crime series. For a sleepy Ceylonese town there is much going on and I am sure that before too long, this talented author, will involve the intrepid Inspector in another complicated crime mystery.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eighth book in this mystery series set in 1930's Ceylon--under British rule it is isolated enough that the rise of Hitler in Europe is hardly making an impact on life there. Although any of the eight books can be read as a stand alone novel, this is one series that is best enjoyed by starting with the first book. The author starts each book with the same introduction, explaining her experiences visiting modern Sri Lanka and how much the place and its people appealed to her. Having planned on a detective series she decided to chose to 30's Ceylon as her setting.

This case involves the kidnapping of two young heiresses, one British, the other, American. During the botched abduction of the American she is killed and the persons responsible become the focus of Shanti de Silva and his officers. Hoping to solve the case rapidly and thus averting any further kidnappings they find themselves without any clues and are at a standstill when the second girl is kidnapped.

In each instance, the determination of the distraught families to pay the ransoms and regain their daughters further hampers the investigations. Still, hamstrung as they are Nuala's finest and the British officials are able to work with locals to make headway without alerting the kidnappers to their efforts.

Finally, the perps are caught in one way or another and Billy and Bella are ensconced in a home with roof and food.

[Margaret Elaine Pote · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy this series. It's light and yet has some meat too. The characters are well drawn, but not overly complex. They behave as they should for the era and not in a 21st century way. While I'd pretty much figured out what was going on in this book, it still managed to throw me off a bit. It was predictable, but in a good way. As I said, the characters had no choice but to behave as they were drawn. So, without spoiling the story, I knew "who done it" without knowing the particulars and the wherefores. And it held my attention to the very end. They always do. I like di Silva and Jane a lot. He's very much a Buddhist, except for the whisky. Archie and Florence, well let's just say I've met them here in Louisiana. But, like many of the folks down here, they are learning to be kind, just and less intolerant. I like that.

[Sharon · Rating 3 out of 5]

As much as I love this series, this particular book just didn't do it for me.

An heiress is abducted, ransomed ... and found dead. Then, her friend is also abducted and ransomed. The only thing they really have in common is that both went to see the same fortune teller.

So, Inspector Shanti de Silva and his understaffed police department in Nuala, Ceylon, are on the job again.

The problem for me is that this book wound up reminding me too much of the Miss Marple mysteries, wherein the solution depends on some secret knowledge that only Shanti turns out to have. I far prefer the fair-play puzzles.

[Donna Church]

When Jane and Shanti attend a gathering at the Residence, little do they know that they will be drawn into a deadly plot. At the gathering 2 wealthy families staying with the Clutterbucks are also in attendance and both have daughters about the same age. That night, one of the daughters is kidnapped from her room. The ensuing ransom demand and subsequent delivery of the money prove deadly leaving the other family in fear for their daughter's life.

When the 2nd daughter is also kidnapped, the Shanti and his team find themselves struggling to make sense of events and discover the perpetrators.

[Judy King · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, the person who never makes it past the second or third of series has finished Harriet Steel's romp through the still Colonized Ceylon.

I've enjoyed these mysteries, they are quiet and gentle, perhaps refined is a better word as Inspector de Silva quietly and respectfully persues the occasional bad guys who pop up in his domain. His English ex-governess wife Jane chimes in from time to time with suggestions and even a bit of undercover work. Still, in every book, the perp remains a secret until the end of the book.

[Cindy C · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the final book of the series. Together they are a feel good story where the mysteries provide a backdrop to the main couple, Inspector Shanti DeSilva and his wife, Jane and their local community in colonial Ceylon (Sri Lanka). I grew to really enjoy the banter between Shanti and Jane and her role in helping him solve the mysteries as well as some of the other regular characters. I also appreciate that the author included some aspects of colonial life and how it affected the local population including Shanti and his police staff.

[Erik Tolvstad · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one might be the best of the series, to date. Part of my pleasure in the series the combination of interesting regular characters and the local environment they operate in. The other part is the well-constructed mystery. There are several threads of questions going through the tale, with the customary set of red herrings. Even when I'm thinking that I've seen through the veil of those, I was never sure of the outcome till the end - and that is a good thing!

[Ellen White · Rating 4 out of 5]

1930’s in Ceylon, meeting friends and new acquaintances at a charity party.
When a kidnapping accrued from an upstairs bedroom, Miss Halloran.was abducted by two men, Her father says it is his fault, a successful business man, and was getting threading letters. Of which mentions his beautiful daughter. A ransom note finally comes, saying its best settled between gentlemen. The inspector ponders the fact being two kidnappers to get both Phoebe and Maria. As was the fact that the British don’t show their emotions. Another interesting case to figure out what the motive and who. were the men. Well done

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed each of Inspector Silvas books. The setting is very interesting and the development of the main characters is believable. The author keeps you guessing until the end. Can't wait for the new book.

Hopefully it's coming soon. I would like to see if Billy and Bella play a part. I can relate well to Jane.

[Gary and Sandra Sims · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story

Harriet Steel has continued to write interesting and imaginative storys that take you to Ceylon of the 1930's with the advent of war looming over Europe Inspector de Silva has to contend with a kidnapping for ransom gone wrong, leading to murder and betrayal. Wonderful book.

[Frances · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very mixed up kidnapping! Shanti is becoming more comfortable with his constable and sergeant assisting in cases as they help solve two kidnappings and two plus murders. Plus Jane and he adopt two kittens.

[Nancy Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like this series better and better with each book. I'm not sure if the relationships are reallyh changing that much but de Silva seems to be treated with more respect and the cases are definitely getting more complicated.

[Geraldine Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fun trip to Nuala

I always enjoy stopping by Nuala to see what Shanti and Jane are up to. love these characters and their supporting cast. This story nvolved two kidnappings and Shanties efforts to solve the crime. As always an excellent mystery and satisfying outcome

[Isabel Prates · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspector de Silva at its best

The Nuala books are always a pleasure to read! De Silva and all his entourage both British and local are well thought of characters and always deliver. A recommended book, again!, and another success!

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taken in Nuala

It’s fun to visit Ceylon once again and experience vicariously the mystery and adventures of the area.
While reading, you’ll find an urge to sit down to a curry dinner with the excellent tea that Ceylon is known for, while trying to decipher “who done it”!

[Susan Cantrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Great Story

I love these mysteries. Each book is well written and the “who done it” is hidden until the very end. I cannot wait until the next book.

[Diana Lee Crew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Binge worthy

I have been a binge reader and loved all the Nuala series.please keep them coming! Inspector de Silva and his wife are terrific.all the characters are well thought out!

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like this gentle series. The mystery/ crime is pretty twisty.

[william szuter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

Like all books in this series it keeps you guessing to the end on to the next one and more !

[Christopher Kee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good read if ever there was one and follows on from the previous, similarly enjoyable, books in the series. I have number 9 on my Kindle already. What will Shanti and Jane be confronted with next time?

[Jeannie May · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun mysteries set in Ceylon in the 1930s

[Rose DuPont · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charming Series

I'm reading the entire series and loving the characters and the locale. Easy read and great fun. Look forward to completing the entire series.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did kinda get to this solution, but... that's ok.