Let's talk about 'The Maid' by Nita Prose. This book is a gem in the thriller genre, blending mystery with a deeply empathetic protagonist. Molly Gray, the maid at the Regency Grand Hotel, is not your typical heroine – and that's what makes her so compelling.

From the first page, I was hooked by Molly's unique voice. Her literal take on the world and her struggles with social cues make her an unforgettable narrator. The way she describes her love for cleaning – turning chaos into order – is oddly poetic. I found myself rooting for her from the start.

The plot kicks into high gear when Molly discovers a guest dead in his room. What follows is a masterclass in suspense. The police interrogation scenes are particularly tense, as Molly's honest answers come across as suspicious. I literally couldn't put the book down during these parts!

What I loved most was how the author handles Molly's neurodivergence. It's portrayed with such authenticity and warmth. Her relationship with her late grandmother adds emotional depth that had me tearing up at points. The 'fortune cookie advice' from Gran did feel a bit repetitive at times, but it's a minor quibble.

The mystery itself is cleverly constructed with several red herrings. While some readers might guess the ending (I did about 70% through), the journey there is so enjoyable it doesn't matter. The supporting characters – from the suspicious detective to the seemingly friendly widow – are all vividly drawn.

At its heart, this is a story about finding your place in the world. Molly's journey from invisible maid to unlikely heroine is both heartwarming and thrilling. The book's compact size makes it perfect for travel – I devoured it in two sittings during a weekend getaway.

If you're looking for a mystery that's equal parts clever and touching, with a protagonist who'll stay with you long after the last page, 'The Maid' delivers in spades. It's refreshing to see neurodivergent representation done this well in mainstream fiction. Already counting down to the next book in the series!