In The Tainted Cup, you’ve got specially augmented humans trying to solve a murder, where a giant tree literally grew out of a victim’s body. There’s a weird, compelling duo, and towering walls built to keep out deadly leviathans — think Sherlock Holmes meets Attack on Titan.

Ana is a brilliant, manipulative strategist who deliberately withholds information, while Din handles the hands-on investigative work. Ana displays behaviours commonly associated with autism spectrum disorder, such as sensory sensitivities, a preference for solitude, and unconventional social interactions. Din is portrayed as having dyslexia, a condition that poses challenges in collecting information. Din’s bisexuality is treated not as a plot point, but simply as a part of who he is. Their characterisations feel thoughtful and authentic. However, I did wish some of the supporting cast had been more fully developed.

The setting is dangerous and fascinating. By the end of Book 1, plenty of questions about the leviathans still linger. I’m curious to see how RJB will expand on this in future instalments. And if we get deeper into the political dynamics hinted at, like the fact that some people live behind more walls, and are thus safer, than others.

RJB’s writing style is clear and fast-paced. It is not particularly distinctive, but perfectly suited to this kind of plot-heavy, twist-filled story.

The murder mystery itself is complex, ambitious, and features a large cast, which can be difficult to manage, but RJB pulls it off. Best of all, the book wraps up its core mystery in a satisfying way, so it works as a standalone (although I’ll definitely be picking up the sequel).

Some small things could have been stronger, but my personal enjoyment was very high!