Books matching: detective investigation
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- #1
Save:A gorgeously written, haunting psychological mystery that digs deep into its characters - just don’t come looking for clean closure. If you like your crime fiction thoughtful, atmospheric, and a bit messy, this is a standout.
In the book 'In the Woods' by Tana French, Detective Rob Ryan and his partner Cassie Maddox are on the hunt for a child killer in the same woods where Ryan's own childhood trauma occurred. The story unfolds with a slow yet intriguing start, weaving a double mystery that keeps readers engaged. The narrative delves into the past and present, exploring themes of psychological tension, guilt, and the complexities of police procedural work. The book is set in Dublin and features atmospheric storytelling that blends elements of romance, violence, and suspense.
The central character, Rob Ryan, grapples with his dark history while investigating the murder of a young girl, drawing parallels to his own childhood tragedy of losing two friends in the same woods. The writing style is praised for its beautiful prose, compelling characters, and intricate plot development that keeps readers riveted. Despite mixed feelings about the ending, readers appreciate the depth of the story and the psychological depth of the characters, making it a compelling read in the Dublin Murder Squad series.
What I warn you to remember is that I am a detective. Our relationship with truth is fundamental but cracked, refracting confusingly like fragmented glass. It is the core of our careers, the endgame o...2006•489 pages - #2
Save:A fast-paced, fun, and clever blend of fantasy and detective fiction with a memorable married duo - perfect if you want your magic with a dash of mystery and a lot of attitude.
'Hawk & Fisher' by Simon R. Green follows the adventures of a married pair of city guards named Hawk and Fisher in the fantasy town of Haven. The couple, known for their intelligence and combat skills, take on various cases ranging from murder mysteries to dealing with supernatural beings like vampires. The story is a mix of fantasy and mystery, with a touch of humor and a focus on the solid partnership between the protagonists.
In a dark and gritty urban setting filled with magic, demons, and thieves, Hawk and Fisher navigate their roles as crime-fighting cops while tackling special cases involving sorcery, murder, and political intrigue. The writing style is described as engaging, with well-crafted characters and a detailed portrayal of the town of Haven, making the book stand out as a unique blend of fantasy and police procedural.
1990•219 pages - #3
Save:An iconic, quietly gripping police procedural - worth reading for its authentic detective work, wry humor, and foundational influence on the Nordic noir genre. Not a rollercoaster ride, but a thoughtful, rewarding classic.
"Roseanna" by Maj Sjowall is the first in the 'Martin Beck' crime novel series, set in Sweden in the 1960s. It follows the investigation led by the protagonist, Martin Beck, into the murder of a young woman found beside a canal. The story unfolds slowly, showing the meticulous collection of clues by the police team, the detailed investigative process, and the pursuit of justice. The writing style is characterized by spare language, vivid descriptions of the Swedish landscape, and a realistic depiction of police work, highlighting the mundane aspects of the job alongside the intensity of solving a crime.
The plot of "Roseanna" is not just a whodunit mystery but also a commentary on the deterioration of the Swedish police force and society, symbolizing broader societal issues like violence and institutional failures. provides a glimpse into the 1960s Swedish society, with its changing social norms, the role of women, and the backdrop of experimentation and risk-taking. The narrative is enriched by the well-developed characters, particularly Martin Beck, who is portrayed as a dedicated investigator navigating personal and professional challenges in the pursuit of justice.
Below the locks at Borenshult there is a breakwater which protects the entrance to the lake from the east wind. When the canal opened for traffic that spring, the channel had begun to clog up. The boa...1965•228 pages - #4
Save:A Study in Scarlet is a clever, quirky introduction to Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson - uneven at times, but a true classic for mystery lovers who want to start at the very beginning.
'A Study in Scarlet' is the first book in the iconic Sherlock Holmes series by Arthur Conan Doyle. The novel introduces the readers to the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal companion Dr. Watson as they embark on their first adventure together. The plot revolves around a murder investigation that leads Holmes and Watson through a complex and intriguing mystery, with unexpected twists and turns. The writing style of the book is described as engaging, with a mix of classic detective storytelling and elements of Western fiction, making it a unique and captivating read.
In the year 1878 I took my degree of Doctor of Medicine of the University of London, and proceeded to Netley to go through the course prescribed for surgeons in the army. Having completed my studies t...1887•157 pages - #5
Save:A rock-solid, moody detective novel that launches a beloved series - perfect for lovers of twisty, character-focused mysteries, but may not suit those wanting light, feel-good fare.
The Black Echo revolves around LAPD detective Harry Bosch who is drawn into a murder investigation involving a fellow Vietnam veteran. As Bosch delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex plot tied to a bank robbery, all while navigating challenging relationships with his superiors and an FBI partner. The book is praised for its impressive police procedural elements, well-developed characters, and gritty details that immerse readers into the heart of Los Angeles and Bosch's past in Vietnam.
The smoke carried up from the Cahuenga Pass and flattened beneath a layer of cool crossing air. From where Harry Bosch watched, the smoke looked like a gray anvil rising up the pass. The late afternoo...1992•475 pages - #6
Save:A punchy, high-concept thriller with sci-fi twists - fun, pacy, and clever, even if it doesn’t reinvent the genre. Great for fans of smart mysteries and accessible speculative fiction.
The 22 Murders of Madison May by Max Barry is a fast-paced thriller that delves into the concept of multiple worlds. The story follows the protagonist, Madison May, who keeps getting killed in different dimensions until a reporter named Felicity Staples sets out to break the cycle. The book combines elements of crime thriller and multiverse sci-fi, keeping the reader engaged with its clever premise and well-written narrative. Despite the lack of character depth in the supporting cast, the story flows nicely and is easy to follow, offering a unique twist that adds to the overall enjoyment.
She pulled to the curb and peered through her car window at the house she had to sell. The mailbox was lying across the lawn in pieces, as if someone had taken a baseball bat to it. “Oh, come on,” Mad...July 2021•336 pages - #7
Save:NYPD Red is a specialized unit of Detectives in the New York Police Department tasked with solving crimes involving the wealthy, politically connected, and celebrities. The book follows Detectives Zach Jordan and Kylie Macdonald as they investigate a series of murders targeting movie people in New York City. With a mix of action, suspense, and witty dialogue between partners, the story unfolds as the elite squad races against time to catch the culprits and prevent further killings. The writing style is fast-paced, engaging, and filled with twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat.
In the first book of the series, the plot revolves around a deranged killer targeting Hollywood stars during an important event in New York City. As the NYPD Red team delves into the investigation, the tension rises, and the stakes get higher with each murder. The book not only focuses on solving the crimes but also explores the dynamics between the detectives, their past relationships, and the challenges they face while dealing with high-profile cases.
2012•512 pages - #8
Save:'The Zodiac Killer' in the series 'Zodiac Killers' by author W.L. Knightly follows Detective Darek Blake, who finds himself entangled in a case connected to his past. As he navigates through the complexities of the investigation, secrets from his youth resurface, putting his career and personal life at risk. The storyline is a mix of thriller, mystery, and crime fiction, with elements of dark themes like BDSM and murder weaved into the plot. The writing style is engaging, with a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers hooked until the very end, leaving them eager to uncover the next twist in the series.
December 2017•154 pages - #9
Save:A solid, atmospheric start to a celebrated series - dated in places, but a must-read for British crime fans and anyone curious about the origins of Dalziel and Pascoe.
A Clubbable Woman by Reginald Hill is the first book in the Dalziel and Pascoe series, introducing readers to the detectives Fat Andy Dalziel and Peter Pascoe. The story revolves around a murder case where a woman is found dead in her sitting room, leading the detectives to investigate the local rugby club where the family at the heart of the case is involved. Set in a small Yorkshire town in the 1970s, the book delves into the social interactions and intrigues within the community, while also exploring the evolving relationship between the two main characters.
The narrative style of the book is described as having decent twists and turns in the case, with a saturated atmosphere of rugby due to the involvement of a rugby club. The story unfolds with interesting character dynamics, particularly between Dalziel and Pascoe, and keeps readers engaged with its plot that involves guessing the killer's identity. Despite some hints of extreme sexism reflective of the time it was written, the book is praised for its original denouement and detailed depiction of life in a class-conscious society centered around a game like rugby.
His head was being pumped up and down by an unknown hand. As he surfaced, his gaze took in an extensive area of mud stretching away to the incredibly distant posts. Then his forehead was brought down...1970•283 pages - #10
Save:A stylish, satisfyingly traditional detective novel starring a capable young woman - it’s more about the journey and the writing than flashy twists. Worth reading if you’re a fan of classic British mysteries or want a smart, subtle crime story.
In "An Unsuitable Job for a Woman" by P.D. James, the story follows Cordelia Gray, a young and determined private investigator who inherits a detective agency after her partner's suicide. Her first solo case involves investigating the mysterious death of a young man, Mark Callender, which is initially ruled as suicide but soon appears to be a murder. As Cordelia delves into the case, she uncovers a web of secrets, twists, and dangers, all while showcasing her investigative skills and confronting societal expectations of her being a woman in a male-dominated field. The plot unfolds with unexpected turns, complex character motivations, and a writing style that balances psychological depth with detailed descriptions of the setting.
On the morning of Bernie Pryde’s death—or it may have been the morning after, since Bernie died at his own convenience, nor did he think the estimated time of his departure worth recording—Cordelia wa...1972•267 pages
