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Ayesha Dean Mysteries #3
Ayesha Dean - The Lisbon Lawbreaker
Teenage sleuth Ayesha Dean is in Portugal, the land of delicious custard tarts, gorgeous sunsets, and piri-piri chicken. But a bungled good deed abruptly lands her on the wrong side of the law. If she tells all, she risks gaol. If she delves further into a mysterious death, she risks her life. If only this Australian could simply eat her way out of trouble. But no such luck.
This time Ayesha Dean is in WAY over her head!
This time Ayesha Dean is in WAY over her head!
- GenresMiddle Grade
333 pages, Paperback
Published April 8, 2021
1 person is currently reading
84 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 8, 2021
This is my second Ayesha Dean story, and it's my favorite so far! I was pulled into the story right from the beginning, and stayed hooked clear to the end. The author has a talent for creating likable, diverse characters (even some of the bad guys are likeable), strong friendships, easy dialogue, and fun banter!! The main character, Ayesha, is on an internship program in Lisbon, Portugal. While in Lisbon, Ayesha is arrested for a murder she didn’t commit. Not trusting the authorities to prove her innocence, Ayesha sets out to find the real murderer. The author's background in criminal law comes through, and we get a realistic glimpse into mystery solving and law proceedings. This story is great for lovers of upper MG mysteries! Well done, Melati Lum!
March 1, 2021
In this third Ayesha Dean book, that can be read as a stand alone, the Australian teen sleuth finds herself on the other side of the law in the beautiful city of Lisbon in Portugal. Over 333 pages, she must understand what she is being accused of and figure out how to clear her name, all while marveling at the beautiful historic sites, diving into the delicious food, and looking fabulous while she does it all. Middle grade to early middle school readers will enjoy the fast pace mystery that has history, crime, adventure, and friendship. There, as always, is a twinge of romance, but it all stays halal as Ayesha is a proud and practicing strong Muslim young woman.
SYNOPSIS:
Ayesha Dean is now 18 and has just arrived in Lisbon for three months as part of an internship program to help little kids with their english. This is her first international trip without her beloved Uncle Day and her two closest friends Jess and Sara. Not to worry, there are a lot of young people participating in the internship program and she will be rooming with two girls, Mara and Aveline. Things start of routine enough as Ayesha gets to know the handsome and kind Raimy from America and tries to figure out why Aveline doesn't seem to like her. But on her way to the school she will be working at, she finds a wallet filled with money and no identification, just a phone number. When she calls the number and a meeting is setup, the stage is set for a series of events that will include telling Raimy off for mansplaining things to her, a man murdered, a chase scene, a necklace stolen, no memory of it all, and Ayesha being arrested.
Knowing only a few people in the city, and having just met them at that, Ayesha makes bail by getting help from her friend's Aunt in Spain who comes to provide Ayesha a place to stay as well. She has some time before her formal hearing, and Ayesha is determined to figure out what she is being accused of and how to clear her name. With the help of Mara, Raimy, a young girl in the elementary school Ayesha was working at, and some chance encounters, Ayesha finds herself risking her own safety in an underground environmental gang ring. I won't spoil all the ups and downs and ultimate ending, but Ayesha Dean's tae kwon do, faith, and wits will all be used and the last page will definitely leave you wanting more.
WHY I LIKE IT:
I feel like the writing has finally found the perfect balance between description and action, the first chapter was a bit choppy, but once it hit its stride it was smooth. I was intrigued by the historical detail that was all new to me, and am pondering how to convince the author to lead a tour group through all these places that Ayesha visits. As always the descriptions of food and architecture and fashion are all so spot on that you feel like you are there. I absolutely love that religion is so genuinely a part of Ayesha, but it is for her, she doesn't do it for any one else. She prays, she wears hijab, she doesn't drink, she clarifies to Raimy what she can do, she acknowledges possible stereotypes and discrimination, but chooses to move forward and not get bogged down by it. She is physically and mentally strong, but doesn't come off as arrogant or judgmental or unrealistic.
I like the diverse characters in this book, and in all of them. The multi ethnic protagonist has friends from all sorts of backgrounds and it is really refreshing and natural.
FLAGS:
There is murder, assault, crime, drinking and alcohol. Nothing is glamorized or anything a third grader couldn't probably handle. There is a hint of possible romance, but nothing that crosses any lines or standards.
TOOLS FOR LEADING THE DISCUSSION:
I would consider this for a middle school book club if the majority of the participants are 6th graders as it would not have the same appeal to older 8th graders. I think they would benefit the most and enjoy the strength and cleverness of such an inspiring lead. Of the three books in the series, I think this one would work the best for insightful discussion and empathy. It would great to hear them imagine themselves in her shoes: a foreign country, no family, no longtime friends, minimal language skills and accused of a serious crime. Oh I can't wait to share this book with my reading friends!
SYNOPSIS:
Ayesha Dean is now 18 and has just arrived in Lisbon for three months as part of an internship program to help little kids with their english. This is her first international trip without her beloved Uncle Day and her two closest friends Jess and Sara. Not to worry, there are a lot of young people participating in the internship program and she will be rooming with two girls, Mara and Aveline. Things start of routine enough as Ayesha gets to know the handsome and kind Raimy from America and tries to figure out why Aveline doesn't seem to like her. But on her way to the school she will be working at, she finds a wallet filled with money and no identification, just a phone number. When she calls the number and a meeting is setup, the stage is set for a series of events that will include telling Raimy off for mansplaining things to her, a man murdered, a chase scene, a necklace stolen, no memory of it all, and Ayesha being arrested.
Knowing only a few people in the city, and having just met them at that, Ayesha makes bail by getting help from her friend's Aunt in Spain who comes to provide Ayesha a place to stay as well. She has some time before her formal hearing, and Ayesha is determined to figure out what she is being accused of and how to clear her name. With the help of Mara, Raimy, a young girl in the elementary school Ayesha was working at, and some chance encounters, Ayesha finds herself risking her own safety in an underground environmental gang ring. I won't spoil all the ups and downs and ultimate ending, but Ayesha Dean's tae kwon do, faith, and wits will all be used and the last page will definitely leave you wanting more.
WHY I LIKE IT:
I feel like the writing has finally found the perfect balance between description and action, the first chapter was a bit choppy, but once it hit its stride it was smooth. I was intrigued by the historical detail that was all new to me, and am pondering how to convince the author to lead a tour group through all these places that Ayesha visits. As always the descriptions of food and architecture and fashion are all so spot on that you feel like you are there. I absolutely love that religion is so genuinely a part of Ayesha, but it is for her, she doesn't do it for any one else. She prays, she wears hijab, she doesn't drink, she clarifies to Raimy what she can do, she acknowledges possible stereotypes and discrimination, but chooses to move forward and not get bogged down by it. She is physically and mentally strong, but doesn't come off as arrogant or judgmental or unrealistic.
I like the diverse characters in this book, and in all of them. The multi ethnic protagonist has friends from all sorts of backgrounds and it is really refreshing and natural.
FLAGS:
There is murder, assault, crime, drinking and alcohol. Nothing is glamorized or anything a third grader couldn't probably handle. There is a hint of possible romance, but nothing that crosses any lines or standards.
TOOLS FOR LEADING THE DISCUSSION:
I would consider this for a middle school book club if the majority of the participants are 6th graders as it would not have the same appeal to older 8th graders. I think they would benefit the most and enjoy the strength and cleverness of such an inspiring lead. Of the three books in the series, I think this one would work the best for insightful discussion and empathy. It would great to hear them imagine themselves in her shoes: a foreign country, no family, no longtime friends, minimal language skills and accused of a serious crime. Oh I can't wait to share this book with my reading friends!
April 7, 2021
Ayesha Dean in Lisbon Law Breaker.
Hi, Uncle Dave here.
It’s a bit unusual for a character in the book to write a review of the book they live in– but I'm Ayesha Dean’s Uncle and also her guardian, because her parents died unfortunately in a car accident. My daughter wanted me to look after Ayesha and bring her up as my own. I've also taken her all around the world – as a lawyer I attend conferences. Some of the readers of the Istanbul Intrigue and the Seville Secret might think I am rather lackadaisical, but I've allowed Ayesha great freedom to develop in the way she wants as well as continuing with her mother's Muslim religion. So I have respected that rather than trying to force her into any other belief.
Ayesha has always dreamed of being a detective, but she did surprise us all when she solved the Istanbul Intrigue, and the Seville Secret, and she managed to escape from terrible situations. I don't know how – more by luck than judgement! Anyway, this time, I made the excuse that I could not come with her. She's 18 year old now, she's a young woman - she’s taught herself Judo and Kung Fu, to a high level and she can even pick locks! I thought, “Well, if she can go by herself and join an educational teaching course – Auntie Jill can keep an eye on her from Seville – then hopefully she'll be all right". How wrong I was.
It all began well, she met some fun new friends and started the course and we were all very happy. And then the next thing we hear, she's in trouble again, what's going on? She's always getting into scrapes and she won't mind her own business. So she said something about a leather wallet that she saw in a bush, which she then has to pick up, and it's filled with money, and it's got a telephone number. And so, instead of just handing it to the police, she wants to find out all about it, by herself.
She’s like a tree standing in a plain that attracts lightning, because she's Ayesha……I do feel I have to say that this is not a good book for impressionable young adults to read, who might find themselves wanting to copy the activities of Ayesha ….. And then the next thing we know she's arrested and she's being charged for collecting endangered animal species parts – a very serious charge – she could end up in prison!
So you can imagine what it's like me being back in Australia rather than being with Ayesha as usual. I am completely at my wit's end what to do. Anyway, we are in it now….. where will it end? Instead of calming down and doing sensible things Ayesha is just getting more and more involved…..
PS
I won't spoil the story as I've just read her Police Statement (luckily I know the best criminal lawyer in Portugal – but the fee is going to sting my wallet). I'm glad Ayesha is OK but you wait till I get her home. Instead of chasing after all the boys at the same time as chasing after all the robbers, she should just find a nice sensible chap and live a nice quiet life and we will all be much happier. So I just want to warn anybody who is going to read this book that it comes with a very big health warning (mine in particular!).
Going back into the book now
Uncle Dave.
Hi, Uncle Dave here.
It’s a bit unusual for a character in the book to write a review of the book they live in– but I'm Ayesha Dean’s Uncle and also her guardian, because her parents died unfortunately in a car accident. My daughter wanted me to look after Ayesha and bring her up as my own. I've also taken her all around the world – as a lawyer I attend conferences. Some of the readers of the Istanbul Intrigue and the Seville Secret might think I am rather lackadaisical, but I've allowed Ayesha great freedom to develop in the way she wants as well as continuing with her mother's Muslim religion. So I have respected that rather than trying to force her into any other belief.
Ayesha has always dreamed of being a detective, but she did surprise us all when she solved the Istanbul Intrigue, and the Seville Secret, and she managed to escape from terrible situations. I don't know how – more by luck than judgement! Anyway, this time, I made the excuse that I could not come with her. She's 18 year old now, she's a young woman - she’s taught herself Judo and Kung Fu, to a high level and she can even pick locks! I thought, “Well, if she can go by herself and join an educational teaching course – Auntie Jill can keep an eye on her from Seville – then hopefully she'll be all right". How wrong I was.
It all began well, she met some fun new friends and started the course and we were all very happy. And then the next thing we hear, she's in trouble again, what's going on? She's always getting into scrapes and she won't mind her own business. So she said something about a leather wallet that she saw in a bush, which she then has to pick up, and it's filled with money, and it's got a telephone number. And so, instead of just handing it to the police, she wants to find out all about it, by herself.
She’s like a tree standing in a plain that attracts lightning, because she's Ayesha……I do feel I have to say that this is not a good book for impressionable young adults to read, who might find themselves wanting to copy the activities of Ayesha ….. And then the next thing we know she's arrested and she's being charged for collecting endangered animal species parts – a very serious charge – she could end up in prison!
So you can imagine what it's like me being back in Australia rather than being with Ayesha as usual. I am completely at my wit's end what to do. Anyway, we are in it now….. where will it end? Instead of calming down and doing sensible things Ayesha is just getting more and more involved…..
PS
I won't spoil the story as I've just read her Police Statement (luckily I know the best criminal lawyer in Portugal – but the fee is going to sting my wallet). I'm glad Ayesha is OK but you wait till I get her home. Instead of chasing after all the boys at the same time as chasing after all the robbers, she should just find a nice sensible chap and live a nice quiet life and we will all be much happier. So I just want to warn anybody who is going to read this book that it comes with a very big health warning (mine in particular!).
Going back into the book now
Uncle Dave.
February 25, 2021
As I read the story aloud, I felt her excitement brewing. Little toes twitched in oversized comfy winter socks, a tiny knee bounced, her small hand on the ready to cup her mouth as she either giggled or gasped.
My nine-year-old granddaughter and I just finished reading Ayesha Dean ––The Lisbon Lawbreaker, book three in the Ayesha Dean Series by Melati Lum, a middle school mystery. Throughout this thrilling adventure, she applauded each chapter’s beginning and groaned at every chapter’s end–– her big brown eyes pleading to me to continue reading, despite my throat becoming parched.
This delightful mystery was not only packed with action but rich with descriptions about Lisbon, Portugal’s culture, architecture, and our particular favorite––foods.
But while I could go on and on giving this book glowing adult reviews, I think you might instead enjoy reading more about it from a young and exuberant reader’s perspective. Without question, this is a five-star YA read and yet another excellent addition to the Ayesha Deen Series, but you don’t have to take my word for it.
I pass the pen.
“From the start, The Lisbon Lawbreaker was a great story. It’s a mystery, my favorite! I couldn’t believe, even from the beginning, how exciting the story was and how the author kept my attention with excellent dialogue. The way she wrote helped me know what the characters thought and what they were about to do. The author also wrote very believable characters, especially Ayesha Dean. Ayesha was smart, brave, and independent. She believed she could do things without anybody’s help.
Every time we read a chapter, I didn’t want it to stop. I just wanted to keep on reading to know what would happen next. When the story finally ended, my heart sank. It was a funny and exciting mystery. Most of all, I love the feeling I get when an author uses words and descriptions that let my imagination run free.” Neylan C. –9 years old
And there you have it––from the mouth of a young reader now an ardent Ayesha Dean Fan.
My nine-year-old granddaughter and I just finished reading Ayesha Dean ––The Lisbon Lawbreaker, book three in the Ayesha Dean Series by Melati Lum, a middle school mystery. Throughout this thrilling adventure, she applauded each chapter’s beginning and groaned at every chapter’s end–– her big brown eyes pleading to me to continue reading, despite my throat becoming parched.
This delightful mystery was not only packed with action but rich with descriptions about Lisbon, Portugal’s culture, architecture, and our particular favorite––foods.
But while I could go on and on giving this book glowing adult reviews, I think you might instead enjoy reading more about it from a young and exuberant reader’s perspective. Without question, this is a five-star YA read and yet another excellent addition to the Ayesha Deen Series, but you don’t have to take my word for it.
I pass the pen.
“From the start, The Lisbon Lawbreaker was a great story. It’s a mystery, my favorite! I couldn’t believe, even from the beginning, how exciting the story was and how the author kept my attention with excellent dialogue. The way she wrote helped me know what the characters thought and what they were about to do. The author also wrote very believable characters, especially Ayesha Dean. Ayesha was smart, brave, and independent. She believed she could do things without anybody’s help.
Every time we read a chapter, I didn’t want it to stop. I just wanted to keep on reading to know what would happen next. When the story finally ended, my heart sank. It was a funny and exciting mystery. Most of all, I love the feeling I get when an author uses words and descriptions that let my imagination run free.” Neylan C. –9 years old
And there you have it––from the mouth of a young reader now an ardent Ayesha Dean Fan.
February 11, 2021
Ayesha Dean and the Lisbon Lawbreaker
Ayesha Dean our hijab-wearing, taekwondo-practising girl detective finds herself embroiled in yet another mystery, this time in the Portuguese cities of Lisbon and Sintra. Although Ibn Arabi, Ayesha Dean’s favourite Andalusian philosopher doesn't feature too heavily in this book; (the first book Ayesha Dean and the Istanbul Intrigue revolved around an ancient Ibn Arabi manuscript) she does mention in the passing that she's travelling in his footsteps - Istanbul, Seville and now Lisbon.
Lisbon Lawbreaker is the second Ayesha Dean book I have had the pleasure of reading, and this time, the stakes are even higher. From the first chapter, I was pulled into the story. The city of Lisbon and it's Moorish/ Andalusian history makes for an exciting backdrop to the mystery. Just when you think that things couldn't get any worse, Ayesha finds herself deeper and deeper in trouble. Still, with the presence of mind, quick moves and an uncanny ability to make allies out of enemies, Ayesha manages to pull through.
Flawed yet endearing, it is refreshing to come across a strong female character who doesn't pander to stereotypes and makes no apologies for her faith, carrying her strong ethics with her wherever she goes.
Full marks for diverse characters, an exciting setting, and well-paced plot points.
* An Advance Reader’s Copy of this book was provided gratis by the author in exchange for an honest review. *
Ayesha Dean our hijab-wearing, taekwondo-practising girl detective finds herself embroiled in yet another mystery, this time in the Portuguese cities of Lisbon and Sintra. Although Ibn Arabi, Ayesha Dean’s favourite Andalusian philosopher doesn't feature too heavily in this book; (the first book Ayesha Dean and the Istanbul Intrigue revolved around an ancient Ibn Arabi manuscript) she does mention in the passing that she's travelling in his footsteps - Istanbul, Seville and now Lisbon.
Lisbon Lawbreaker is the second Ayesha Dean book I have had the pleasure of reading, and this time, the stakes are even higher. From the first chapter, I was pulled into the story. The city of Lisbon and it's Moorish/ Andalusian history makes for an exciting backdrop to the mystery. Just when you think that things couldn't get any worse, Ayesha finds herself deeper and deeper in trouble. Still, with the presence of mind, quick moves and an uncanny ability to make allies out of enemies, Ayesha manages to pull through.
Flawed yet endearing, it is refreshing to come across a strong female character who doesn't pander to stereotypes and makes no apologies for her faith, carrying her strong ethics with her wherever she goes.
Full marks for diverse characters, an exciting setting, and well-paced plot points.
* An Advance Reader’s Copy of this book was provided gratis by the author in exchange for an honest review. *
April 5, 2024
What a fantastic, final instalment to this mysteries series. The most suspenseful, mysterious storyline that kept me guessing to the end! There were moments when I was frustrated with Ayesha for taking wrong turns that landed her in hot water but I have to admire her tenacity, determination and courage when she was on a mission for the truth.
Reading this series it’s like watching Ayesha grow and now she’s older the adventures she encounters are more intense. Throughout the books we enjoy the team effort of Ayesha, Sara and Jess solving mysteries together but this time Ayesha being on an internship in Lisbon without her 2 besties left her having to figure things out on her own. We do however meet awesome new characters and they were such an asset to the story.
There were a lot of historical elements in this book I found fascinating. I learnt so much about the history of Portugal and I love how the author takes us on Ayesha’s journey yet informs the reader of a lot of history - quite the learning experience,
I also enjoyed how Ayesha remains true to her faith during the good times and bad and even keeps it halal when she crosses paths with a boy interest - taking us back to the fundamental that yes we are human, we have feelings of attraction but to move forward we follow the halal process.
Fast paced, adventurous, suspenseful and overall so much fun to read! Truly enjoyed this series.
Reading this series it’s like watching Ayesha grow and now she’s older the adventures she encounters are more intense. Throughout the books we enjoy the team effort of Ayesha, Sara and Jess solving mysteries together but this time Ayesha being on an internship in Lisbon without her 2 besties left her having to figure things out on her own. We do however meet awesome new characters and they were such an asset to the story.
There were a lot of historical elements in this book I found fascinating. I learnt so much about the history of Portugal and I love how the author takes us on Ayesha’s journey yet informs the reader of a lot of history - quite the learning experience,
I also enjoyed how Ayesha remains true to her faith during the good times and bad and even keeps it halal when she crosses paths with a boy interest - taking us back to the fundamental that yes we are human, we have feelings of attraction but to move forward we follow the halal process.
Fast paced, adventurous, suspenseful and overall so much fun to read! Truly enjoyed this series.
February 19, 2021
I wish I knew Ayesha Dean! ❤
Growing up I devoured books like Nate the Great, Encyclopedia Brown and Nancy Drew. To have had Ayesha as a companion would have been so wonderful.
Better late than never!
This is the 3rd Installment in the delightful Ayesha Dean Mystery Series and Ms. Lum does not disappoint her readers.
Like the first two books the reader travels along with Ayesha to a city rich in history, adventure and intrigue. This time we are transported to sunny Lisbon in Portugal.
We do not have to wait long for Ayesha to be embroiled in an investigation. Right from the get-go we know she's literally thrown herself into quite a pickle!
I must say though I knew Ayesha would ultimately solve the mystery and 'save the day'. Never once was I bored. Always excited to turn the page to see how Ms. Dean will handle the situation(s) she finds herself in.
I have also notice a sense of maturity in Ayesha. From dealing with how people view her (she is a visible minority.) To her ability to discern not everything is plain black or white. Which is just one of the many reasons why this series endears itself to me. Plus, she's a fellow mint chocolate chip ice cream lover. How can I not love her?!
*I was a given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
Growing up I devoured books like Nate the Great, Encyclopedia Brown and Nancy Drew. To have had Ayesha as a companion would have been so wonderful.
Better late than never!
This is the 3rd Installment in the delightful Ayesha Dean Mystery Series and Ms. Lum does not disappoint her readers.
Like the first two books the reader travels along with Ayesha to a city rich in history, adventure and intrigue. This time we are transported to sunny Lisbon in Portugal.
We do not have to wait long for Ayesha to be embroiled in an investigation. Right from the get-go we know she's literally thrown herself into quite a pickle!
I must say though I knew Ayesha would ultimately solve the mystery and 'save the day'. Never once was I bored. Always excited to turn the page to see how Ms. Dean will handle the situation(s) she finds herself in.
I have also notice a sense of maturity in Ayesha. From dealing with how people view her (she is a visible minority.) To her ability to discern not everything is plain black or white. Which is just one of the many reasons why this series endears itself to me. Plus, she's a fellow mint chocolate chip ice cream lover. How can I not love her?!
*I was a given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
February 24, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this Ayesha Dean mystery, a series with which I was not familiar before. I was given an advance copy to read by the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. Eighteen year-old Ayesha is a strong and vibrant protagonist who will appeal to pre-teen readers. At the beginning of the novel, we meet her as she arrives in Lisbon, Portugal, for a summer service program. It is just a matter of a few pages before Ayesha, a detective wannabe, is swept up in a series of events that will plunge her into Portugal's criminal justice system. Starting from the moment she innocently discovers a wallet on the street, I found myself wondering how the tale would unwind. There's a lot to enjoy here. The author is careful to mention the clothing worn by her characters, including the matching hijabs donned by Ayesha, and her readers will enjoy these fashion touches. Perhaps most strikingly, Lum weaves in Ayesha's faith as a natural but critical part of her life. She stops to pray at the appropriate times, and she's very conscious of the history of Muslims in Lisbon, explaining the prominence of the community to her student and her friend. This book is well paced, clearly written, and relatable. I highly recommend it.
February 28, 2021
Melati Lum knows how to weave a story that is equally rich in plot, atmosphere and character. Ayesha Dean as once again left her native Australia to experience a lovely European destination. This time, Lisbon. Though she is in Portugal for an internship, she is quickly thrown into a mystery that might put her in hot water. Lum is excellent at transporting her readers to new places and embraces the history, architecture, food and culture she writes about, making the reader feel that they are there. Ayesha is a brave, bright, kind and culturally sensitive heroine who knows her mind and isn't afraid to tell people what she thinks. She is a great role model for any mid-grade reader. Though Ayesha is 18, the language and interactions, even romantic, are very modest and the story is probably best suited to pre-teens. If you know a reader who likes travel and mystery, they will love the Ayesha Dean mysteries.
(This book was shared with me as an ARC copy by the author but the review is my own and accurately reflects my assessment)
(This book was shared with me as an ARC copy by the author but the review is my own and accurately reflects my assessment)
February 3, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was well-written at a great pace, and was full of suspense and intrigue, with a strong Muslim female teen as the lead character supported by a fun range of interesting characters. The storyline was fun and kept me engaged through the whole book.
My favourite part of the book was how much the author brought Lisbon, Portugal alive - reading it felt like I was transported to this beautiful city immediately. The atmosphere, the culture, the food, the language, the history and amazing architecture all jumped out at me and made me wish I could visit this city right away!
The plot was wonderful, it kept me guessing all the way from beginning to end. I enjoyed the book as an adult but also as a parent of tween boys, I am really excited to recommend the book to them as I'm sure they will absolutely love the story. I highly recommend reading this book with some Portuguese tarts and a cup of tea!
My favourite part of the book was how much the author brought Lisbon, Portugal alive - reading it felt like I was transported to this beautiful city immediately. The atmosphere, the culture, the food, the language, the history and amazing architecture all jumped out at me and made me wish I could visit this city right away!
The plot was wonderful, it kept me guessing all the way from beginning to end. I enjoyed the book as an adult but also as a parent of tween boys, I am really excited to recommend the book to them as I'm sure they will absolutely love the story. I highly recommend reading this book with some Portuguese tarts and a cup of tea!
February 18, 2021
The third exciting instalment of Ayesha Dean's adventures takes place in yet another fascinating location full of history, mystery and action! Lisbon, Portugal is a wonderful city steeped in cultural heritage and author Melati Lum masterfully weaves together Ayesha's experiences in the city with references to historical figures and events. I particularly enjoyed her explanations of Muslim heritage and influence on the city's architecture and culture.
In this story, Ayesha Dean faces an unparalleled conundrum where she is now the one under suspicion and she finds herself deep inside the underworld. How she manages to get herself out of sticky situations and yet keep her outfits all so well put together makes for entertaining reading! Congrats Melati on another great story that unapologetically celebrates a young, adventurous Muslim woman who knows her own mind.
In this story, Ayesha Dean faces an unparalleled conundrum where she is now the one under suspicion and she finds herself deep inside the underworld. How she manages to get herself out of sticky situations and yet keep her outfits all so well put together makes for entertaining reading! Congrats Melati on another great story that unapologetically celebrates a young, adventurous Muslim woman who knows her own mind.
April 18, 2021
I was looking forward to this third instalment in this wonderful series for preteens and it did not disappoint! Teenage detective Ayesha Dean is back in action, but this time she's travelling on her own to one of my favourite cities I've visited, Lisbon. I felt as if I was back there, walking through the cobblestone streets and eating all the delicious food. The action this time around was of a faster pace, and even though I'm not in the target age group, I felt the suspense building so much that I needed to read on to see how it all unfolded. Ayesha is growing up in this book and it was interesting to see how she deals with plenty of new experiences and challenges. I thoroughly enjoyed this exciting addition to the series and I'm sure preteens will too.
April 5, 2021
The third instalment of the Ayesha Dean Mysteries is a beautiful read.
In this novel, the author wonderfully blended the police procedural genre with a light commentary on an historically important city, all told though the lens of a confident and astute young woman coming of age.
My favourite part of the writing in this book was how Ayesha handled her relationships with others in trying circumstances.
In this novel, the author wonderfully blended the police procedural genre with a light commentary on an historically important city, all told though the lens of a confident and astute young woman coming of age.
My favourite part of the writing in this book was how Ayesha handled her relationships with others in trying circumstances.
April 29, 2021
This book was so thoroughly exciting, suspenseful, and hilarious I felt like I was in the book itself!
I was held aloft by the gripping tale that was set in the wonderful city of Lisbon, and where a mysterious crime has been committed!
Personally what I enjoyed the most was the characters, with their different aspects and emotions, but everything else I equally loved in this book!
I was held aloft by the gripping tale that was set in the wonderful city of Lisbon, and where a mysterious crime has been committed!
Personally what I enjoyed the most was the characters, with their different aspects and emotions, but everything else I equally loved in this book!
May 15, 2021
I loved this newest instalment of the Ayesha Dean Mystery series. All the suspense and excitement was heightened in this new adventure where Ayesha finds herself in trouble once again. I loved the descriptions of Lisbon, and the food. It made me want to visit straightaway, if only we could travel. Possibly the best book so far in this series, I'm sure young pre-teens will enjoy!
April 11, 2021
I love this series and as I always say we need more interesting diverse characters like Ayesha in fiction. This is a fascinating story that takes us to Lisbon and puts Ayesha on the wrong side of the law. Well written and engaging this is exactly what young adult fiction should be. 4.5* from me
April 25, 2021
Initial thoughts: Ayesha really likes to just go head first into trouble id be running the other way sis. Anyway, this was cute and fun thought the ending sort of happened really fast but idk if that was because my brain was starting to sleep or not haha
(full review to come)
(full review to come)
January 30, 2021
Loved it to bits! Ayesha's latest adventure really took us back to Portugal, I could almost taste those Portuguese tarts! Highly recommend this book 👍🏾
April 13, 2021
Link to my book talk: https://youtu.be/2ZUdZ2TVhEE
April 29, 2021
I enjoyed this book and i liked the characters.
February 8, 2024
this book is fire
June 22, 2024
I’m so sad this is the end of the Ayesha Dean series! All I want is to see more of her adventures :(
February 27, 2021
Disclaimer : I was given an arc in exchange for an honest review by the author. All opinions are my own and this doesn’t affect my review.
Okay, first off I love that Ayesha wears the hijab and this is perfect for fans of Nancy Drew!! Ayesha is a Muslim kid who loves solving mysteries. I loved reading about her family and Lisbon. It really feels like you’re there and with covid this is the closest you’ll get to traveling the world! It’s an adorable story and perfect for young readers (and even if you’re not a young reader I’d recommend it because it’s just so well-written)!! I also love the mystery and how everything unfold.
Okay, first off I love that Ayesha wears the hijab and this is perfect for fans of Nancy Drew!! Ayesha is a Muslim kid who loves solving mysteries. I loved reading about her family and Lisbon. It really feels like you’re there and with covid this is the closest you’ll get to traveling the world! It’s an adorable story and perfect for young readers (and even if you’re not a young reader I’d recommend it because it’s just so well-written)!! I also love the mystery and how everything unfold.
October 8, 2021
Incredible Adventure!!! Full Review coming up soon ❤️
[10th Feb 2021]
Ayesha : Easy-going, Adventurous, stubborn and dauntless.
Mara: She's such a hugger & cheerful, and most favourable too (and Raimy of course)
Raimy: Perky, resourceful, coherent and handsome 😎
Aveline: She's bitter, snappish, sombong and annoying berabis. kamu ada ni kawan cani 😂
Boss: ah the boss.. i want him lost all his teeth at once! 😂😂
Raimy & Ayesha: They have this chemistry, with the eye contact and the smile although it's still early to think further 😉 and hello, we are on a mission here! Also both are So So So adorable togather 🥰
I love reading a story portrayed by young muslim girl, especially the exciting and thrilling plot. And additional history (education). Yang ani Islamic history. How Islam masuk ke Lisbon once upon a time, including the Lisbon culture. Here's the thing, I love author yang pandai describes makanan dalam writing! I'll crave for it every second I read! miatu 😂 And every building + place she described so detail, make you wanna go there and experience it your self!
And bonus! Melati Lum is a very very humble & friendly author you ever know! No! bukan pasal she gave me free books to review, but because she is humble🤍
Middle Grade. 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱‼️
_____________________________________
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest and decent review. Thank you so so so much the Author Ms. @MelatiLum and Publisher🙏🏼🧡
𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 [10th Oct 2021]
[10th Feb 2021]
Ayesha : Easy-going, Adventurous, stubborn and dauntless.
Mara: She's such a hugger & cheerful, and most favourable too (and Raimy of course)
Raimy: Perky, resourceful, coherent and handsome 😎
Aveline: She's bitter, snappish, sombong and annoying berabis. kamu ada ni kawan cani 😂
Boss: ah the boss.. i want him lost all his teeth at once! 😂😂
Raimy & Ayesha: They have this chemistry, with the eye contact and the smile although it's still early to think further 😉 and hello, we are on a mission here! Also both are So So So adorable togather 🥰
I love reading a story portrayed by young muslim girl, especially the exciting and thrilling plot. And additional history (education). Yang ani Islamic history. How Islam masuk ke Lisbon once upon a time, including the Lisbon culture. Here's the thing, I love author yang pandai describes makanan dalam writing! I'll crave for it every second I read! miatu 😂 And every building + place she described so detail, make you wanna go there and experience it your self!
And bonus! Melati Lum is a very very humble & friendly author you ever know! No! bukan pasal she gave me free books to review, but because she is humble🤍
Middle Grade. 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱‼️
_____________________________________
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest and decent review. Thank you so so so much the Author Ms. @MelatiLum and Publisher🙏🏼🧡
𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 [10th Oct 2021]
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