My Year in Books 2025: July

Ah, another very short list again this month. I only got time to read one book for pleasure in July, though it was a very long one!

In case you're curious, here are my lists for the rest of the year: January, February, March, April, May, June

The Devil and the Dark Water by Stuart Turton (2020)

This next book was a library book. I actually got it out in early June, but it took a little while to read it. Partly, that was because it’s quite a massive book! But mostly, it was because I had a lot of other stuff I needed to read for review this month. I’ve read Turton’s first and third novels and absolutely adored them, so it’s a bit strange that it took me so long to read his second one. But I’ve read it now, and I really liked it! The book is set in the seventeenth century, on a ship heading from the Dutch East Indies to Amsterdam. On board is the world’s greatest detective, Sammy Pipps, and his bodyguard Arent Hayes. Sammy has been imprisoned by the Governor of Batavia for an unspecified crime and is locked in the hold for the journey. Before they’ve even left the dock, however, strange things start to occur, leading some to wonder if the devil is tormenting the voyage. The story unfolds as a cross between supernatural horror and classic locked room mystery, with an impossible murder leading Arent to team up with Sara, the Governor’s wife, as the only detective who could solve the puzzle quickly has been locked up. It’s a really compelling story, and the classic whodunnit elements are never overshadowed by the shadow of the supernatural. The reveal is deeply satisfying as well – I worked out about 50% but there were some really good surprises left too.