The Verifiers 🕵️‍♀️

By Jane Pek.

Jane Pek’s The Verifiers is a clever and engaging mystery that blends amateur sleuthing with sharp social commentary. At its centre is Claudia Lin, a witty and unconventional investigator navigating the murky world of online dating and digital surveillance.

Claudia’s recruitment into Veracity, a secretive detective agency focused on online matchmaking, sets the stage for an intriguing investigation.

The book explores technology’s influence on modern relationships, unearthing hidden manipulations beneath the glossy surface of dating apps. Claudia’s love for detective fiction adds charm to the narrative, and her sharp observations bring a fresh and entertaining voice to the genre.

Beyond the mystery, The Verifiers is an exploration of identity. Claudia’s struggles with cultural and familial expectations feel authentic, particularly her defiance of traditional career paths and romantic norms. Pek weaves themes of queerness, autonomy and digital ethics seamlessly into the story, adding layers that make the book more than just a whodunnit.

Some sections delve deep into discussions on artificial intelligence and corporate secrecy, which may slow the pace for readers looking for a straightforward mystery. However, these moments highlight unsettling truths about the algorithms shaping personal decisions.

For those who enjoy intelligent, character-driven mysteries, The Verifiers offers a gripping plot with plenty of insightful commentary.

Claudia Lin is a memorable protagonist, proving that detective fiction can feel thoroughly modern while staying true to its investigative roots.

Thank you to Frances and the team at Verve Books for running this book tour! The book is available for pre-order and will be published on the 30th June 2025.

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