The Last Mandarin    by Louise Penny & Mellissa Fung Order:  USA  Can Minotaur, 2026 (2026) Hardcover, e-Book      Reviewed by Barbara Lingens Alice Li reveres her mom, Vivien, a world-renowned Tiananmen Square dissident. Unfortunately, her mom has never paid much attention to her. But when things get complicated, when everyone's cell phone alarm goes off, all of a sudden Alice is tagging along with Vivian to meet the President of the United States. Everyone thinks China is not only behind this but has more to come, and since Vivien is sure she knows who is responsible, she hurries to China to try to stop it. When Alice also turns up, we are in for an edge-of-the-seat time. Secret messages fly back and forth between China's Premier and America's President; a language devised many years ago by Chinese women is part of the plot; and the thrills don't let up until the end. This is a very interesting story of how power can be used or misused, whether we are considering the personal or the political. It is also a fascinating weave of culture and history plus a look into the future. The fast-moving plot strains belief at times, but I have to say I was so caught up in it that it only mattered in hindsight. Hindsight also asks for more about that interesting language. Looking for a political thriller with a global perspective and strong female characters? This one is definitely for you. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews