This isn't a mystery, more a straight novel by a mystery author. It's a wonderful read, though. The Flower Net by Lisa See. The Chinese inspector is a particularly interesting character. I would have liked to have seen more of the story through her eyes.
China makes an excellent setting for a thriller.
It's a land of hidden power, often exercised with great ruthlessness. Appearance and reality rarely coincide. The author uses these advantages well. No book is perfect. But it's interesting, well paced and enjoyable.