Book Review: The Good, the Bad. and the Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto

 

After a honeymoon across Europe, Meddy and Nathan join the Aunties and their extended family in Jakarta for  Chinese New Year. Fourth Auntie has arranged for an old beau of Second Auntie to join their family celebration. Abi comes bearing gifts, lots of gifts. But one of these things is not like the others and was meant for a business rival. The Aunties all agree it is only right to return that gift to Abi. So, they start looking for it. Chaos ensues when the person who has it doesn't want to give it up.

The Aunties all have a time to shine, especially Fourth Aunt and First Aunt. They dominate the plans and follow through. Meddy has less to do until closer to the end. She and Nathan are mostly swept along in the chaos that is the Aunties. There is not much character growth, but we do get to see a more well rounded depiction of some of the characters.

The plot moves along fairly quickly once it gets going. Problems arise and the Aunties make plans to solve them. The plans often seem a little wild and complicated. You've got to suspend your disbelief, but then you can sit back and enjoy what happens.

I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars. This is the third and final book of the series. I felt it was left open enough that if the author changes her mind she could easily revisit these characters. I have to say that I've really enjoyed reading about the Aunties and the chaos that seems to follow them. I also like the way they love one another and will band together whenever one of them is in trouble. If you enjoy humorous mysteries, this could be a good series for you. The Aunties will definitely keep you on your toes.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my review.

The Good, the Bad, and the Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto was released March 26th, 2024 by Berkley.