Alpha Beta Gamma by Malabika Ray - REVIEW
A book review by Victoria Walsh.
You know, a novella is good when it starts with the line ‘undercurrent of hatred has reached a whole new level after the death of Masha Amini, a twenty-two-year-old university student who was savagely beaten by the morality police.’ And ends with ‘Men! Well, screw them all. I order another Margarita.’
‘Alpha Beta Gamma’ is an engaging book that captures the reader from the start. You will love this novella if you’re interested in politics (without much politicing) and culture (without stereotypes). Book #1 of the up-and-coming series - The Diary of a Sloppy Sleuth- is Malabika Ray's brainchild in the spy thriller genre. Ray writes from a background in physics and, more importantly, cybersecurity, taking inspiration from real-life events such as the Polonium poisoning of a Russian double agent in 2006 and recent events in Iran.
In her first book, Ray weaves a complex tale of mystery and espionage. The story features a physics master's student named Srija, or Sri for short, who gets involved in a complicated mystery after one of her professors is mysteriously killed. Another death and several would-be kidnappings follow this. The plot is fast-paced, believable, and only too relatable in parts.
Ray says this about herself: She heads an engineering division in the R&D department of a global car company, and she writes spy thrillers as a hobby. She created this series of the ‘Diary of a Sloppy Sleuth’ where Sri, a master's student, involves herself in a murder investigation with an MI6 officer and a private detective, and together they uncover a thrilling spy conspiracy.
Going on to say that the crime-solving trio lives beyond the first book as they continue to uncover other mysteries across Europe. Ray’s first book in the series has been published, and she has four more ready. She likes to interact with her readers and values their feedback. Ray says, ‘If you want a modern, high-paced, cerebral thriller with twists and turns, then I believe you would enjoy my series.’ She is 100% correct.
Ray writes well, and her characters are believable. You immediately buy into the Hugh Grant-esque Matt, while Neil appears arrogant and not particularly likeable. The good news is that we love Sri from the off, which is just as well since this is book 1 in the series. Old TV sleuths clearly shape Ray’s writing. She regularly references Ms. Marple and Sherlock Holmes throughout the novella.
Ray could easily write a screenplay based on her book in the style of Agatha Christie’s Poirot or Jessica Fletcher from the TV series Murder, She Wrote. Fans of Ray will find this style of hapless sleuthing endearing and comforting. Veronica Mars could also be an influence, offering a modern twist on the amateur sleuth. Veronica is a high school student turned private investigator who solves crimes in her hometown; each character trait from these well-known shows can be found in ‘Alpha Beta Gamma.’
Ray has a scientific background that is clear to see throughout the book. The terms Alpha, Beta, and Gamma originate from the Greek alphabet, where they are the first three letters: α (alpha), β (beta), and γ (gamma). Professionals in various fields have widely adopted these terms, and now, α β γ is the title of Ray’s first thriller.
In the early 20th century, Ernest Rutherford, a physicist (who gets a shout-out in the book,) named alpha, beta, and gamma rays. He used these terms to describe different types of radiation based on their penetrating power. The Greek letters are also used in many other scientific and mathematical contexts to represent different variables, constants, and coefficients, which is why the first book's title is so apt.
I look forward to the next book in the series as Sri becomes more confident and the will-she-won’t-she aspect of a possible love triangle evolves (or not). For all our sakes, we need more of Aunty Shukla, who plays a significant role in the book. Everyone needs an aunt like that to keep them on their toes and feed them excellent food. Personally, if Ray could throw in the odd recipe, I would be deliriously happy, but if not, then a description of a family feast will do.
For those unfamiliar with honour killings, the book touches lightly on this subject by mentioning a charity called ‘Hounslow Asian Sisters’; while this name appears to be fictitious, several charities and non-profits offer help to those facing these kinds of abusive situations. The subtle inclusion of serious topics adds a layer of social awareness to the narrative, making it not just a thrilling read but also a thought-provoking one.
Overall, Alpha Beta Gamma is a compelling start to what promises to be an exciting series. Its blend of mystery, cultural insights, and a touch of humour keeps you hooked from start to finish. I eagerly await the next installments to see how Sri's journey unfolds and to enjoy Aunty Shukla's delightful presence more. If you're a fan of intelligent, culturally rich mysteries, this novella is definitely worth your time.
