The Last of Earth by Deepa Anappara

 In 1869 Tibet is closed to Europeans which is not an ideal situation for the expending British Empire. As a result, Britain hires native people to cross borders and spy for them. One such spy is Balram, an Indian schoolteacher who previously worked for Britain alongside his friend Gyan who is missing now. There is a rumor that he might be imprisoned within Tibet. Desperate to rescue his friend, he agrees to guide an English captain. The captain, disguised as a monk, wants to chart a river crossing Tibet. It’s not something that sits well with Balram, to be deceiving Tibetans, but life is about choices and he needs to make the one that feels right for him.

Their path crosses with Katherine who was denied a fellowship in the all-male Royal Geographical Society in London, and intends to be the first European to reach Lhasa. She is a very captivating character which grabs readers’ attention.

Throughout the story brief characterizations are woven which are interesting and poignant. Descriptions of daily progress or scenery are vividly portrayed.

The novel explores the theme of ambition. What it means for an individual person which is a fascinating premise. It is written with striking prose, and there is some tension and suspense.

Released in January 2026

Source: Random House