Bangkok 8 -- 4 stars

John Burdett's Bangkok 8 hits you on your head like a shot of yaa-ba! The characters, caricatures if I may are a lovely introduction to everything Thai-stereotype. I read this before going to Bangkok and now I have a tonne to go and explore. The story has its fair share of twists and turns -- but that is second fiddle to the backdrop of the city -- Jipleecheep is a lovable character. If anything, the relationship with Kimberley isn't built up as much as could have been relegating her to a disposable side kick. Loved the book!