alli Kaur Jaswal, a Singaporean novelist of Punjabi ancestry, gained significant popularity with her captivating third book, Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows, published in 2017. The book received widespread acclaim and earned her a coveted spot in Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine online book club. In 2019, The Business Times recognised her as “the most internationally renowned Singaporean.”

Jaswal’s literary journey continues with her latest book, Now You See Us. This thought-provoking novel sheds light on the hidden lives and buried secrets of Singaporean maids, captivating readers with its insightful exploration. As the cover suggests, the book uncovers the stories that often go unnoticed, offering a glimpse into a parallel world.

An enchanting blend of social commentary, cultural exploration, murder mystery and an exploration of the intricate nature of personal identity, the book effortlessly captures the essence of Singaporean society from the perspective of those classified as ‘foreigners’. With its crisp and light-hearted tone, the story takes readers on a captivating journey through the vibrant characters that inhabit its pages.

Corazon, a seasoned Filipino maid, returns to Singapore to resume her work as domestic help after an extended absence. She soon encounters Donita, a young woman fresh out of her teens, who finds herself grappling with the challenges of her new job at the Merry Maids agency. Donita, an audacious and media-savvy rebel, refuses to be confined by the limits imposed by migrant life in Singapore. Meanwhile, Angel, burdened by a broken relationship, experiences a sense of disillusionment.

As the narrative unfolds, these resilient heroines navigate their way through a society that often brings about considerable pressure to conform. Their vibrant personalities and spirited determination make them the true story.

Donita’s friend, Flordeliza Martinez, is suspected of murdering her employer, despite Donita’s claim of seeing her elsewhere at the time of the crime. Although they are not well acquainted with the accused, the three women take it upon themselves to investigate the crime, utilising their invisibility in Singaporean elite homes.

Each woman faces her own set of challenges. Angel, for instance, is dealing with the aftermath of a difficult breakup and there is a possibility that a new domestic caregiver might replace her in the household. Additionally, she must fend off sexual harassment from her employer’s son.

Her romantic life burdens Donita due to her demanding employer, Fann Poh Choo. Fann constantly subjects Donita to demeaning tasks whenever she leaves the house and confiscates her phone. Donita’s relationship with an Indian construction worker raises questions, particularly because her boyfriend maintains an active social media presence that may conceal more than it reveals.

Cora, known for her strong advocacy for the welfare of domestic workers, has become a mere shadow of herself, fleeing from a threat related to the drug war of President Rodrigo Duterte. Now, she must guard a secret from her employer, who is busy preparing an extravagant wedding ceremony for her socialite daughter, Josephine.

Despite their different circumstances, the three women share a common conviction: they firmly believe in Flordeliza’s innocence. The murder itself forms only a small part of the story. The narrative is driven by a clash between the wealthy and the maids. It provides a gripping exploration of power and wealth – how power is wielded, seized and won, and how wealth can both protect and limit one.

A remarkable aspect of the novel is the exploration of identity. Jaswal skillfully depicts the struggles faced by the characters as they grapple with their cultural heritage, societal expectations and personal desires. Her writing style is vivid and immersive. It gives the readers a glimpse of the intricate tapestry of Singaporean culture.

Cora’s account is insightful and perceptive. However, the pacing stumbles in certain sections, particularly when introducing secondary characters and subplots, making it feel somewhat disconnected. Angel’s character appears to be defined solely by her broken relationship. Additionally, Donita’s portrayal as the wild child feels repetitive. The recurring theme of maids discovering a social media account where Singaporean elites discuss their workers stealing valuables or engaging in affairs also becomes redundant. Readers who appreciate character-driven narratives with a hint of mystery will become engrossed in this tale.

Now You See Us

Author: Balli Kaur Jaswal

Publisher: William Morrow, 2023

Pages: 316

The reviewer is a content lead at an agency and a literary critic based in Karachi. She can bereached at sara.amj@hotmail.co.uk