The Language of Secrets: A Novel (Rachel Getty and Esa Khattak Novels, 2) - Hardcover

"Khan delivers an action-packed police procedural complemented by strong characters with believable motives.”―Associated Press

“Exceptionally fine...A heartfelt novel for lovers of crime fiction and anyone interested in the complexities of living as a Muslim in the West today.”―Library Journal (starred review)

“Sophisticated...The characters are well-drawn and pleasingly varied: Khattak is a compelling protagonist, a cerebral, reserved Muslim comfortable with his faith but not ruled by it, and the buoyant, hockey-loving Getty is an endearing foil. The cell members are afforded fully dimensional personalities and varied passions, ideals, and justifications for their actions; everyone has their reasons, Khan understands, and her nuanced exploration of those reasons elevates her second novel above the general run of detective fiction. A smart, measured, immersive dive into a poorly understood, terrifyingly relevant subculture of violent extremism.”―Kirkus Reviews

Praise for The Unquiet Dead:

“Impressive...Throughout Getty and Khattak’s solid and comprehensive investigation, Khan’s talents are evident. This first in what may become a series is a many-faceted gem. It’s a sound police procedural, a somber study of loss and redemption and, most of all, a grim effort to make sure that crimes against humanity are not forgotten.” ―The Washington Post

“The Unquiet Dead blazes what one hopes will be a new path guided by the author's keen understanding of the intersection of faith and core Muslim values, complex human nature and evil done by seemingly ordinary people. It is these qualities that make this a debut to remember and one that even those who eschew the genre will devour in one breathtaking sitting.” ―The LA Times

“Ausma Zehanat Khan's gripping first novel tackles questions of identity, culture, revenge and war horrors in a strong police procedural...Khan illustrates her powerful storytelling through her well-sculpted characters...An intelligent plot and graceful writing make The Unquiet Dead an outstanding debut that is not easily forgotten.” ―The New York Times

“This is Canadian-born Khan’s first novel and what a debut it is!...Khan knows her subject, knows her hometown, and knows how to keep the suspense building. This is a writer to watch.” ―The Globe and Mail