Books matching: dysfunctional policing
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- #1
Save:In "Guards! Guards!", Terry Pratchett introduces the Watch of Ankh Morpork, a group of humorous and quirky characters who stumble around trying to do as poor a job as possible, only to discover a dragon menacing the city. The book follows the Watch as they set out to save the city, dealing with social commentary, absurdity, romance, and twisted tropes in classic Discworld style. Pratchett's writing is described as hilarious, well-plotted, and just plain fun, with all the elements that readers expect from his works.
The novel is praised for introducing the City Watch characters, including the beloved Captain Vimes, and providing a humorous take on dysfunctional policing in a chaotic city. The plot involves intrigue, conspiracy, danger, and dragons, with a touch of satire and clever observations that make it a standout entry in the Discworld series.
And although the space they occupy isn’t like normal space, nevertheless they are packed in tightly. Not a cubic inch there but is filled by a claw, a talon, a scale, the tip of a tail, so the effect ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Discworld ) - #2
Save:In 'Undone' by Karin Slaughter, the narrative delves into a complex and suspenseful investigation led by GBI agents Will Trent and Faith Mitchell, alongside ER doctor Sara Linton. The book intertwines characters from different series by the author, creating a gripping storyline that involves a sinister case of multiple murders, kidnappings, and a race against time to save victims. Slaughter's writing style is characterized by detailed descriptions, flawed yet engaging characters, and a plot full of suspense and unexpected twists.
SARA LINTON LEANED BACK IN HER CHAIR, MUMBLING A SOFT “Yes, Mama” into her cell phone. She wondered briefly if there would ever come a point in time when this felt normal again, when a phone call with...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Will Trent ) - #3
Save:The Black Marble by Joseph Wambaugh revolves around a dognapping case involving a valuable show dog named Vickie. The story follows the investigation led by alcoholic police officer Valnikov and his partner cop Natalie, along with a colorful cast of characters including a woman who owns the champion dog, a kennel operator, and an unscrupulous dog trainer known as The Terrier King. As the plot unfolds, readers are taken through a series of misfit characters both in and out of law enforcement, resulting in a bizarre and humorous mystery that delves into the world of old-school policing.
Wambaugh's writing style in The Black Marble is described as typical of his works, with a slow start that gradually hooks the reader in. The book is praised for its humor, showcasing the wacky and absurd nature of police work, along with its vivid depictions of life in a squad room filled with flawed yet entertaining cops. The narrative unfolds through different character perspectives, offering a mix of funny, sad, frightening, and surprising elements that capture the essence of the police experience.
- #4
Save:"When These Mountains Burn" by David Joy delves into the harsh realities of poverty, despair, and addiction flowing through the Appalachia Mountains of Western North Carolina. Through the eyes of characters like Ray, a retired Fire Forester, and local addicts like Denny, the author vividly portrays the devastating effects of illegal drugs on families and communities. As Ray is pushed to seek vengeance against ruthless drug dealers threatening his son's life, a gripping tale of desperation, corruption, and the pursuit of justice unfolds. The author's writing style combines slow-cooked grit lit with poetic prose, creating a noir atmosphere reminiscent of Jim Thompson while addressing contemporary issues with authority and topicality.
Rain bled over the dusty windshield. Raymond Mathis wrung the steering wheel in his fists trying to remember if there was anything left worth taking. The front door of his house stood open and from th... - #5
Save:"Against Her Will" by Ronald J. Watkins delves into the shocking and horrific murder of Kelly Ann Tinyes, exploring the impact on both the victim's and the murderer's families. The narrative sensitively recounts the tragic events without sensationalizing, shedding light on the neighborhood's destruction due to one moment of senseless brutality. The author skillfully weaves together details of the crime, the investigation process, and the emotional aftermath, keeping readers engaged and emotionally invested in the story.
- #6
Save:In "The Last Stone" by Mark Bowden, readers are taken through the harrowing investigation of the cold case involving the disappearance of two young sisters from a shopping mall in 1975. The book delves into the meticulous efforts of a team of detectives who, after decades, manage to extract a confession from a convicted pedophile named Lloyd Welch. Through detailed interviews and interrogation techniques, the detectives strive to unravel the truth behind the heinous crimes committed against the girls, shedding light on the dark and disturbing events that took place.
The narrative of "The Last Stone" is structured around the interactions between the detectives and the imprisoned suspect, highlighting the battle of wits and psychological manipulation that unfolds during the interrogation process. Mark Bowden's writing style captures the tension and complexity of the investigation, providing a glimpse into the dedication and challenges faced by law enforcement in seeking justice for the victims and their families.
But Lloyd was already mixed up in it, enough to scare him. He needed to do something, even if it meant running a big risk. The marijuana buzz, he figured, would soothe him and help him think straight.... - #7
Save:All That's Dead by Stuart MacBride is a gripping crime novel in the Logan McRae series that revolves around a politically charged case involving Scottish Independence and Brexit. The book follows Logan McRae, a police officer in Aberdeen, as he investigates a series of gruesome murders with nationalist motives. The plot is well-formed and relevant, with twists and turns that keep the reader engaged. The writing style of MacBride is described as gritty yet humorous, making the story both dark and entertaining.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Logan McRae ) - #8
Save:'Gun Street Girl' by Adrian McKinty is the fourth book in the 'Detective Sean Duffy' series, set in Northern Ireland during the Troubles in the mid-1980s. The plot revolves around a complex murder-suicide case involving a wealthy couple and their son, which leads Duffy and his partner, McCrabban, to uncover a web of deceit involving missing missiles, gun dealers, and political intrigue. The book expertly weaves real historical events into the narrative, grounding the story in its time and place, while showcasing Duffy's unorthodox investigative style and his struggle to navigate the turbulent political landscape of Belfast.
The writing style of 'Gun Street Girl' is praised for its engaging and suspenseful storytelling, filled with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the end. Adrian McKinty's dark humor and gritty portrayal of Belfast during a tumultuous period add depth to the narrative, making the characters, especially the flawed yet relatable Sean Duffy, compelling and memorable. The book seamlessly blends elements of police procedural with historical fiction, offering readers a gripping and immersive reading experience.
Midnight and all the agents are asleep, and on the beach there are only disaffected, cold policemen silently sharing smokes and gazing through binoculars at the black Atlantic, hoping to catch the fir...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Detective Sean Duffy ) - #9
Save:'Hades' in the series 'Archer & Bennett' by Candice Fox follows the story of Eden and Eric Archer, raised by a fixer named Hades in the suburbs of Sydney. Eden, now a police detective, is assigned a new partner, Frank Bennett. The plot unfolds with chilling descriptions of serial killers' body dump sites, multiple serial killers' threads adding madness to the narrative, and a fast-paced police procedural setting. The narrative switches points of view, providing a unique storytelling style that keeps readers riveted from start to finish.
I figured I’d struck it lucky when I first laid eyes on Eden Archer. She was sitting by the window with her back to me. I could just see a slice of her angular face when she surveyed the circle of men... - #10
Save:In the book 'Ragman' by J.G. Faherty, a tale of revenge unfolds as Ahmes II, an ancient mummy, seeks retribution for the desecration of his god's tomb over a century ago. The story weaves together elements of horror, mythology, mystery, and romance, set in both historical and modern-day locations. As the mummy enacts his revenge in the present day, a group of interconnected characters, including dysfunctional cops and former partners, must unravel the mystery behind the gruesome murders and prevent further bloodshed.
The narrative in 'Ragman' is fast-paced, blending history with religion, myth, and lore, creating a unique and engaging story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The writing style expertly combines elements of supernatural horror with dark academia, procedural cop drama, and a touch of romance, offering a thrilling and action-packed reading experience.
