The Recommended Reading Order
The Anita Ray series is best read in publication order, which also matches the chronological progression of the story. Starting from the beginning allows you to watch Anita settle into life at Auntie Meena's Hotel Delite, develop her relationship with the local community, and refine her keen eye for clue-gathering photography.
- Under the Eye of Kali (2010) – The first novel in the series, introducing Anita, the hotel, and her first case involving a missing tourist.
- The Wrath of Shiva (2012) – Anita investigates missing antiques and family secrets amidst sacred groves.
- For the Love of Parvati (2014) – Set during the monsoon season at a relative's estate.
- The Secret of the Pulluvan Drum (2015) – A shorter mystery story/novella.
- The Silver House (2015) – A shorter mystery story/novella.
- When Krishna Calls (2016) – Anita balances an upcoming gallery show with a murder investigation linked to moneylenders.
- In Sita's Shadow (2022) – The fifth full-length novel, where a tour leader is found dead at the hotel, prompting Auntie Meena to suspect a haunting.
Shorter Works vs. Full-Length Novels
While the main narrative is carried by the five published novels, Susan Oleksiw released two shorter digital works in 2015: The Secret of the Pulluvan Drum and The Silver House. These are quick cozy mysteries that add flavor to the series but can be skipped if you want to focus exclusively on the full-length novels. If you choose to read them, slot them in between For the Love of Parvati and When Krishna Calls.
Spin-Offs and Related Series
Susan Oleksiw has not written any direct spin-offs or crossovers for the Anita Ray series. However, if you enjoy her writing style, you can check out her other works, including the Mellingham series (featuring New England police chief Joe Silva) and the Pioneer Valley series (featuring central Massachusetts healer Felicity O'Brien).