Synopses & Reviews
Known for her wonderfully addictive characters, multiple award-winning author Gigi Pandian introduces her newest heroine in this heartfelt series debut. Under Lock & Skeleton Key layers stunning architecture with mouthwatering food in an ode to classic locked room mysteries that will leave readers enchanted.
An impossible crime. A family legacy. The intrigue of hidden rooms and secret staircases.
After a disastrous accident derails Tempest Raj's career, and life, she heads back to her childhood home in California to comfort herself with her grandfather's Indian home cooked meals. Though she resists, every day brings her closer to the inevitable: working for her father's company. Secret Staircase Construction specializes in bringing the magic of childhood to all by transforming clients' homes with sliding bookcases, intricate locks, backyard treehouses, and hidden reading nooks.
When Tempest visits her dad's latest renovation project, her former stage double is discovered dead inside a wall that's supposedly been sealed for more than a century. Fearing she was the intended victim, it's up to Tempest to solve this seemingly impossible crime. But as she delves further into the mystery, Tempest can't help but wonder if the Raj family curse that's plagued her family for generations — something she used to swear didn't exist — has finally come for her.
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“With dazzling sleight of hand, Gigi Pandian launches an enchanting new series...a must-read.” Deanna Raybourn
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“Gigi Pandian is the modern master of the locked room mystery.” S.A. Cosby
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"A stand out mystery. The fast-reading, suspenseful tale delights, with dashes of international spice and a powerful new heroine." Sujata Massey
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“An absolute sparkling gem of a book! With masterful misdirection and literary slight of hand, Pandian has penned a delectable tale that kept me guessing." Jenn McKinlay
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"Pandian is this generation's queen of the locked-room mystery! A whimsical confection.” Naomi Hirahara
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“An extremely likable new protagonist, a cunning plot, and a cast of quirky, fascinating characters...full of twists and witty insights you never see coming.” Aaron Elkins
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" A perfect blend of adventure and mystery.” Paige Shelton
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“A love letter to golden age mysteries...will keep readers guessing whodunit until the very end.” Ellie Alexander
Video
Watch the Powell’s virtual event with Gigi Pandian, Kellye Garrett & Alex Segura!
About the Author
Gigi Pandian is the USA Today bestselling and multiple award-winning author of the Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt mysteries, the Accidental Alchemist mysteries, and several locked room mystery short stories. Her works have won her the Agatha, Anthony, Lefty, and Derringer awards, and her debut novel was awarded the Malice Domestic Grant. A breast cancer survivor and accidental almost-vegan who adores cooking, Pandian lives with her husband in Northern California. Under Lock & Skeleton Key is the first in a new series that draws upon the author's own family history.