Kingdom of Strangers is a crime novel set in Saudi Arabia. The crime component reminded me of tv shows like Dexter and Bones-- solving an elaborate puzzle to catch a flamboyant cereal killer. I've read very few crime novels so I'm not sure how it compares to the rest of its genre.

The hunt for the cereal killer provides structure, suspense and pace, but the subplots are the really interesting part of the story. Detective, Ibrahim, and forensics technician, Katya, both face complications in their private lives that are specific to their culture. Ibrahim’s mistress has gone missing, but he can't report this since their relationship is a crime punishable by death. Katya is trying to push for the career she wants, but the code of conduct she must follow as a woman is a minefield.

I found this book a really interesting insight into the laws, culture and religious practices of Saudi Arabia and what people's day to day lives are like in a society so different from my own. On top of that it was a quick, easy and satisfying read with smooth prose.