Books matching: detective duo
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- #1
Save:A solid, classic-style mystery with memorable characters and plenty of London grit - perfect for fans of detective fiction, but possibly too slow and detailed for those seeking nonstop thrills.
Set in modern-day London, 'The Cuckoo's Calling' follows Cormoran Strike, a down-on-his-luck private detective, as he investigates the death of supermodel Lula Landry. With the help of his temp secretary, Robin, Strike delves into a complex mystery involving possible suspects, red herrings, and unexpected plot twists. The book is praised for its well-developed characters, engaging writing style, and classic detective story elements.
THOUGH ROBIN ELLACOTT’S TWENTY-FIVE YEARS of life had seen their moments of drama and incident, she had never before woken up in the certain knowledge that she would remember the coming day for as lon...January 2013•496 pages - #2
Save:A witty, character-driven mystery classic packed with clever banter and 1930s style - less about the crime, more about the charismatic couple. Worth it for the sparkling dialogue alone!
The Thin Man by Dashiell Hammett is a clever and engaging detective novel featuring a charming married couple, Nick and Nora Charles. Set in 1930s New York, the story revolves around the mysterious disappearance of an eccentric inventor, which Nick, a retired private eye, is reluctantly drawn into solving. The writing is sharp and often humorous, characterized by witty banter between Nick and Nora, reflecting their deep affection for each other while navigating the chaotic world of crime and alcohol.
While the plot involves murder and intrigue, some readers feel less invested in the central crime and its victims. The novel's pacing can be uneven, with certain scenes dragging on, but it captivates with its lively characters and vivid portrayal of urban life. Nick and Nora’s relationship stands out, combining a rich social life filled with drinks and laughter amidst the backdrop of murder. Hammett's crisp prose allows the story to flow effectively, making for a quick yet entertaining read that has earned its legacy as a classic of American literature.
1934•205 pages - #3
Save:In "Dark Sacred Night," Harry Bosch teams up with night detective Renee Ballard to unravel a cold case involving a young prostitute who was shot 9 years back. As they zig and zag through the maze of the unsolved case, they find themselves delving into the dark and drug-infested underground of Hollywood. The book presents a new direction for Bosch, working alongside Ballard, showcasing finely drawn supporting cast and a compelling villain. The story is fast-paced and engaging, blending old-fashioned detective work with intriguing character dynamics.
The book offers a Los Angeles-based murder adventure novel set in present day, where multiple cases are solved in the end, albeit with a bit of dragging on. It provides a fascinating look into the workings of the Los Angeles Police Department, featuring believable character situations and a mix of cold cases and current investigations. The partnership between Bosch and Ballard is highlighted as they navigate through various cases, showcasing good character development and an expected solid storyline from Michael Connelly.
The patrol officers had left the front door open. They thought they were doing her a favor, airing the place out. But that was a violation of crime scene protocol regarding evidence containment. Bugs...2018•462 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Harry Bosch Universe ) - #4
Save:A fun, sharp, and inventive detective romp that brings a much-needed modern twist to the genre - perfect for cozy mystery fans and anyone ready for a fresh female duo.
In the mid-1940s in New York City, the book "Fortune Favors the Dead" follows the story of Lillian Pentecost, a middle-aged private detective with multiple sclerosis, and her young assistant, Willowjean Will Parker. Together, they are hired to solve the murder of Abigail Collins, the wife of an industrialist. As they delve into the case, they encounter a mix of mundane and spectacular mysteries, including a classic locked room mystery that piques their interest. The narrative is told through the engaging first-person voice of Will, who brings sass and spark to the story, making it a captivating read with a hint of noir, dash of humor, and intriguing characters.
I had scored a few shifts working guard duty at a building site on West Forty-second. A lot of the crew on Hart and Halloway’s Traveling Circus and Sideshow picked up gigs like that whenever we rolled...October 2020•348 pages - #5
Save:A Drink Before the War is a tough, raw, and compelling start to a beloved detective series - perfect for readers craving edgy crime fiction and flawed heroes who tangle with real-world issues. Not flawless, but definitely addictive.
Dennis Lehane's 'A Drink Before the War' follows private investigators Patrick Kenzie and Angie Gennaro as they take on a seemingly simple assignment for a prominent politician: to uncover the whereabouts of a black cleaning woman who has allegedly stolen confidential state documents. However, the investigation quickly escalates, implicating members of the woman's family and rival gang leaders, uncovering extortion, assassination, and child prostitution in the bombed-out ghetto streets of South Boston. The writing style is described as pulsating, gritty, and noirish, capturing the worst human horrors found closest to home, with a plot that keeps readers engaged and on the edge of their seats.
The bar at the Ritz-Carlton looks out on the Public Gardens and requires a tie. I’ve looked out on the Public Gardens from other vantage points before, without a tie, and never felt at a loss, but may...1994•343 pages - #6
Save:A solid Southwestern mystery blending clever plotting with fascinating insight into Native cultures - perfect for crime fans who enjoy more than just a whodunit.
In 'The Dark Wind' by Tony Hillerman, Navajo Tribal Policeman Jim Chee is faced with a series of interconnected cases involving drug smuggling, windmill vandalism, robbery, and mysterious murders. As Chee delves deeper into the investigations, he must navigate the complexities of Navajo, Hopi, and white cultural values to solve the puzzles. The book intricately weaves together elements of Native American traditions, Southwest landscapes, and gripping mysteries, showcasing Chee's dedication to his duty and his unique problem-solving skills.
Even from where he stood, at least fifteen yards farther down the trail, Albert Lomatewa could see that nobody had lost the boot. The boot had been placed, not dropped. It rested upright, squarely in... - #7
Save:'Sun on Fire' by Viktor Arnar Ingolfsson is a murder mystery set in both Germany and Iceland, focusing on the murder of a pedophile in the Icelandic Embassy in Berlin. The plot revolves around a group of attendees at a meeting in the Embassy who have a shared past, some of whom still live together. The story is described as intriguing, with a complex case for the investigators due to the connections with the past events. provides insights into diplomatic circles and Icelandic hippie history, with a look into the lives of the main detectives, Birkir and Gunnar, who are sent from Iceland to solve the case in Germany.
The cell phone on the bedside table played the ever-popular “Air on the G String” by Johann Sebastian Bach, quietly at first, but growing louder and more distinct despite the phone’s poor sound qualit...2009•324 pages - #8
Save:In 'The Rabbit Factory' by Marshall Karp, LAPD detectives Lomax and Biggs are thrown into a series of murders at the Familyland theme park, reminiscent of Disneyland. The book follows a roller coaster ride of twists and turns as the detectives race against time to solve the case and prevent further bloodshed. With a mix of humor, fast-paced action, and intricate plot development, the story unfolds with elements of mystery and suspense, keeping readers engaged from start to finish.
Six weeks ago he had lied, cheated, and bribed his way into the best job in the world. And now, he was Rambo. Rambunctious Rabbit, the most famous character Dean Lamaar ever created. The acknowledged...2005•553 pages - #9
Save:'Wash This Blood Clean from My Hand' by Fred Vargas is a thrilling mystery novel that follows Commissaire Adamsberg as he investigates a series of murders connected to a judge from his past. The plot keeps readers guessing till the very last pages, with a unique and powerful storyline that challenges the loyalties of Adamsberg's team. The characters are brilliantly drawn, with diverse personalities adding depth to the story. The book is filled with vivid descriptions, lush phrasing, and a delightful sense of humor, creating a captivating read that transports readers from Paris to Strasbourg to Ottawa.
2007•398 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Commissaire Adamsberg ) - #10
Save:Bronze Gods by Ann Aguirre is a mix of fantasy, steampunk, and crime-solving mystery set in an alternate historical London. Inspectors Janus Mikani and Celeste Ritsuko work for the CID in Dorstaad, investigating a series of murders involving young women with magical abilities and political influence. The story follows their partnership, their unique talents, and their evolving relationship as they delve into a complex case involving a magic-using killer and political intrigue.
WAKING HAD NEVER BEEN EASY FOR JANUS MIKANI; WHERE others merely dreamt, he was seduced. His Ferisher blood brought visions of a different world than the one in which they lived. On rousing, he was le...April 2013•372 pages
