“Imperial Secrets” by Paul Brennan was an unexpected gem that completely captivated me from the first page. I found not only a masterfully woven narrative but also a delightful blend of elements that I adore — murder mystery, food culture, and historical intrigue.
The premise itself is enticing: an ancient manuscript, hidden away since colonial times, uncovered in the basement of the British Library. I was instantly pulled in by the dramatic backdrop and the way it interconnected two great chefs separated by 250 years. The journey begins with the original owner of the manuscript, a man caught in the chaos of war, who makes a daring escape by river only to find himself amidst betrayal and danger on a voyage with a notoriously reckless Dutch ship captain. This compelling storyline set in vivid coastal towns and swirling storms made me feel as though I was right there alongside the characters, gripped by tension and excitement.
Brennan's writing is rich and evocative, seamlessly transporting me through time and place. I’ve never visited Thailand or the other locales featured in this novel, yet the descriptions of the sights, sounds, and smells were so immersive that I felt as if I had been whisked away on the very same adventures as the characters. The attention to detail not only brought the settings to life but also deepened my connection to the narrative.
Speaking of connection, I found myself particularly attached to the character of Mohamad, whose journey felt authentic and poignant against the larger backdrop of history and culture. The dual timelines—one steeped in the complexities of colonialism and the other in modern-day Thailand—were expertly handled, with Brennan allowing the past and present to intertwine in such a way that felt both fluid and meaningful. Every character’s arc added depth to the story, making the stakes feel personal.
What truly surprised me was how effectively Brennan layered culinary artistry into the narrative. As a food lover, I revelled in the details surrounding the great chefs and their creations. The exploration of food as a cultural touchstone added an entirely new dimension to the plot—a reminder of how deeply food is intertwined with identity and heritage.
“Imperial Secrets” is not just a tale of intrigue; it’s a celebration of passion, history, and resilience. If you’re looking for a captivating read that blends mystery with rich cultural storytelling, “Imperial Secrets” is a novel for you.

'A rare and ancient manuscript, saved from destruction and hidden since colonial times, is discovered in the basement of the British Library. A secret that links two great chefs, separated from each other by 250 years.' That was a hook for me to read this book and I wasn't disappointed.

This had all the mystery and excitement I would expect but had the addition of two great chefs (I love food and cooking). The story was thrilling and had the depth which made it a great read. The writing is good, love the characters and the story was a bit different than any book I have read recently. A great read.

Thank you NetGalley and Troubador for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.

Super different from my usual reads. Lately I've been reading dark romance so this was an interesting read