What are you reading?

Death of a Red Heroine by Qiu Xiaolong

Where did you get it?

My sister-in-law, who lives in Beijing, gave it to me.

What prompted you to read it?

I'm traveling in China and this book deals with the transition from communism to capitalism. Plus, I always like detective novels.

How are you liking this one?

It's great. It has very developed characters, especially Detective Chen, who's enjoying his life after years of deprivation.

What's the last book you read?

Dark Star by Alan Furst.

Are you reading anything else?

River Town: Two Years on the Yangtze by Peter Hessler.

What do you plan to read next?

Another Detective Chen mystery.