Picture a Mumbai-born storyteller who swapped spreadsheets for suspense, weaving tales of colonial India that grip your heart—meet Nev March! This award-winning author burst onto the historical mystery scene with her debut, Murder in Old Bombay, a Sherlock-inspired adventure that’s as vibrant as a Bombay bazaar. With a knack for blending meticulous research with thrilling narratives, March has carved a unique niche in historical fiction.
Her stories don’t just entertain; they transport you to the bustling streets of 1890s India, where divided loyalties and hidden truths simmer beneath the surface. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the journey of this remarkable writer!
The Making of Nev March
Nev March, a Parsi Zoroastrian, grew up in Mumbai, where tales of mystery—like the unsolved deaths of two Parsi women in 1891—sparked her imagination. After a successful career in business analysis, a layoff in 2015 became a turning point. March returned to her passion for storytelling, trading corporate life for the thrill of fiction. Influenced by Rudyard Kipling’s vivid depictions of India and Arthur Conan Doyle’s deductive genius, she began crafting stories that blend adventure with historical depth.
Her transition wasn’t just a career shift; it was a leap of faith. Armed with a love for history and a sharp analytical mind, March honed her craft, eventually catching the eye of Minotaur Books. Her persistence paid off, launching her as a celebrated voice in mystery writing.
Nev March’s Unforgettable Stories
March’s debut, Murder in Old Bombay (2020), is a masterclass in historical mystery. Set in 1892, it follows Captain Jim Agnihotri, an Anglo-Indian detective inspired by Sherlock Holmes, as he investigates the suspicious deaths of two women from a university clock tower. Based on a true story, the novel weaves romance, intrigue, and colonial tensions into a vivid tapestry, earning the Minotaur Books/Mystery Writers of America First Crime Novel Award and nominations for Edgar, Anthony, and more.
Her follow-up, Peril at the Exposition (2022), takes Jim and his spirited wife, Lady Diana, to the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, tackling social unrest and murder. The Spanish Diplomat’s Secret (2023) sees the couple aboard a transatlantic steamship, grappling with a bizarre killer. The Silversmith’s Puzzle (2025) returns them to India to save Diana’s brother. March’s lyrical prose and focus on identity, race, and justice make her stories resonate, painting colonial India with both beauty and grit.
Her style is immersive, blending meticulous historical detail with fast-paced plots. Whether it’s the opulence of Parsee merchants or the squalor of Bombay’s docks, March’s settings leap off the page, while her biracial protagonist, Jim, navigates a world of prejudice with heart and cunning.
Why Nev March Matters
Nev March isn’t just telling stories; she’s shining a light on the complexities of colonial India, from caste divides to the struggles of mixed-race identities. As the first Indian-born winner of the Minotaur Books/Mystery Writers of America Award, she’s broken barriers, bringing diverse voices to the forefront of historical fiction. Her work resonates with readers who crave adventure and authenticity, earning praise from outlets like The New York Times, which named Murder in Old Bombay one of 2020’s best crime novels.
As the 2024 NY Chapter President of Mystery Writers of America, March also mentors aspiring writers, sharing her passion at places like Rutgers University’s Osher Institute. Her stories remind us that history isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a mirror for today’s challenges.
- Born: Mumbai, India (exact date unavailable)
- Key Works: Murder in Old Bombay, Peril at the Exposition, The Spanish Diplomat’s Secret, The Silversmith’s Puzzle
- Awards: Minotaur Books/MWA First Crime Novel Award, Edgar and Anthony finalist
- Lives: New Jersey, USA
Snag Murder in Old Bombay and dive into Nev March’s thrilling world of mystery and history! You’ll be hooked on Captain Jim’s adventures and the vibrant tapestry of colonial India.