'The Constant Gardener' (1977) by John le Carré

'The Constant Gardener', set against the backdrop of Kenya, is a gripping political thriller and a poignant love story. It follows Justin Quayle, a reserved British diplomat, as he investigates the murder of his passionate and idealistic wife, Tessa. Tessa, an activist, was working to expose a pharmaceutical company’s unethical practices, including the testing of dangerous, experimental drugs on impoverished Kenyan communities.

As Justin delves deeper into Tessa's life and death, he uncovers a web of corruption involving the pharmaceutical industry, government officials, and corporate greed. The story explores themes of love, betrayal, moral ambiguity, and the power dynamics between the developed and developing world. Justin's journey transforms him from a passive bureaucrat into a relentless seeker of truth, willing to risk everything to honor his wife's memory and complete her mission.

The novel critiques global injustices and challenges the reader to question the complicity of powerful institutions in perpetuating suffering. 'The Constant Gardener' is both a thrilling mystery and a powerful social commentary, offering a moving portrait of love and loss in the face of systemic corruption.