Books matching: feminism and crime
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A myth-busting, detailed history of female serial killers with bold opinions - great for hardcore true crime fans, but may be polarizing if you want pure objectivity.
'Female Serial Killers: How and Why Women Become Monsters' by Peter Vronsky is a meticulously researched exploration of the history of female serial killers. Vronsky delves into various historical themes such as feminism, religious history, and industrialization while providing case studies and details of over 100 female serial killers. The writing style is described as clear, engaging, and occasionally sarcastic, making the book a captivating read for true crime enthusiasts interested in the psychology and motivations of these female killers.
How and why? How do females become serial killers and why do they kill? The why is easy: They can kill for the same reasons that male serial killers do: for power, for control, for sexual lust, for pr...August 2007•502 pages- #2
'Real Easy' by Marie Rutkoski is a dark and gritty thriller that delves into the world of strip club life, following the disappearance of Samantha, one of the main characters. The book explores the aftermath of the fateful trip that Samantha embarks on, intertwining the lives of various characters, from detectives investigating the case to other dancers and their families. Each chapter is told from a different character's point of view, providing a unique perspective on the unfolding events. The narrative skillfully weaves together multiple points of view, creating a complex and engaging storyline that keeps readers invested in the characters and their stories.
The writing style of 'Real Easy' is described as well-crafted and unique, with multiple POVs and scene breaks contributing to a compelling storytelling approach. The book offers a realistic and unflinching portrayal of the strip club world, showcasing the risks, challenges, and diversity within this setting. Despite the initial frustration with the numerous characters and points of view, readers find themselves gradually drawn into the story, ultimately becoming invested in the characters and their journeys. The novel is praised for its depth of characters, intricate plot, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged until the end.
Samantha smiles and asks if he wants a dance. He smells like a kid, like sweat and juice boxes, and has a stubby body with one hunched shoulder. He skims a big palm over the silver bristle of his hair...January 2022•326 pages - #3
A taut, twisty, and thoughtful crime thriller - The Concrete Blonde is one of Connelly's best, blending mystery, legal drama, and character depth. Highly recommended for fans of smart, layered detective stories.
In 'The Concrete Blonde,' Detective Harry Bosch finds himself in the midst of a civil trial for the shooting of a serial murderer, while simultaneously dealing with a copycat killer on the loose. The book delves into Bosch's character as a cop who bends the rules to catch criminals, facing challenges and conflicts as he navigates through a gripping mystery intertwined with courtroom drama. The plot unfolds with intense pacing, gritty action, and well-crafted twists that keep readers engaged from beginning to end.
The narrative of 'The Concrete Blonde' combines elements of a detective story with courtroom scenes, providing a multi-layered reading experience. Readers are taken on a roller-coaster ride as Bosch grapples with the consequences of his past actions while trying to solve a new murder mystery. Michael Connelly's writing style shines through as he weaves together a riveting tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, blending police procedural aspects with legal thrills and character dynamics.
There are no benches in the hallways of the U.S. District Courthouse in downtown Los Angeles. No place to sit. Anybody who slides down the wall to sit on the cold marble floor will get rousted by the...1994•515 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Harry Bosch Universe ) - #4
A pioneering, character-driven detective debut that holds up as a history-making, fun read. Not the slickest of mysteries, but well worth it for the iconic heroine and stylish Chicago grit.
'Indemnity Only' in the V.I. Warshawski series by Sara Paretsky is a mystery novel featuring the tough and resourceful female private detective, V.I. Warshawski, as she navigates through a complex case involving a missing girl, a corrupt union boss, a murder, and insurance fraud in Chicago. The story unfolds with twists and turns, showcasing V.I.'s tenacity, investigative skills, and determination to uncover the truth despite facing dangerous situations and shady characters. The writing style evokes a sense of historical fiction, capturing the essence of Chicago in the 1980s and highlighting themes of feminism, social justice, and the evolving landscape of technology.
The night air was thick and damp. As I drove south along Lake Michigan, I could smell rotting alewives like a faint perfume on the heavy air. Little fires shone here and there from late-night barbecue...1982•327 pages - #5
A smart, atmospheric police procedural with strong female leads and layered storytelling - ideal if you like your mysteries more thoughtful than shocking.
"The Burning" by Jane Casey follows Detective Constable Maeve Kerrigan as she investigates a series of brutal murders in London. The story delves into the complexities of the case, with Kerrigan facing challenges within the male-dominated police force and navigating personal relationships. The narrative alternates between Kerrigan's perspective and that of the victims' friends, providing a well-developed plot with compelling twists and turns. Casey's writing style captures the tension and suspense of the investigation, drawing readers into a psychological thriller that keeps them guessing until the end.
I didn’t know where I was or what I was doing when the phone rang; I didn’t even know that it was the phone that had woken me. I came up from miles below the surface and opened an eye as one part of m...2010•465 pages - #6
A well-researched, twisty historical mystery drenched in Edinburgh’s fog, blending medical drama, crime, and social intrigue - perfect for fans of intelligent, character-driven historical fiction with a dark edge.
Set in mid Victorian Edinburgh, "The Way of All Flesh" follows the journey of Will Raven, a young medical student, and Sarah, a maid at the household where he is apprenticed, as they delve into solving the mystery of young women dying in contorted positions with evidence of abortions. The book seamlessly intertwines a gripping plot with a rich historical backdrop, detailing the medical developments of the era and the societal barriers faced by women in seeking education and controlling their reproductive choices.
The novel presents a dark and engaging narrative, exploring the complexities of the characters' pasts while navigating through the medical mysteries and dangers lurking in foggy 19th-century Edinburgh. Through the eyes of Raven and Sarah, readers are taken on a journey filled with suspense, historical discoveries, and a quest for justice in a society where class struggles and women's rights take center stage.
No decent story ought to begin with a dead prostitute, and for that, apologies, for it is not something upon which respectable persons would desire to dwell. However, it was the very assumption that t...August 2018•415 pages - #7
A fun, cozy, and somewhat quirky first outing for McDermid - best enjoyed as a light, character-driven mystery with a unique lead. Not as complex as her later works, but a promising and entertaining start to the Lindsay Gordon series.
In her debut novel, Val McDermid introduces readers to Lindsay Gordon, an abrasive Scottish socialist freelance journalist who finds herself covering a fundraising gala at a girls' public school. When a murder occurs at the event, Lindsay teams up with a new love interest, Cordelia Brown, to solve the crime and clear the name of a friend who has been arrested. The story unfolds with plenty of plot twists, red herrings, and suspects, keeping readers guessing until the final showdown. The writing style is described as a mix of a classic mystery novel with a lesbian twist, making it a quick and easy read with a different romantic element.
The book features an unusual protagonist in Lindsay Gordon, who is portrayed as a self-described cynical socialist lesbian feminist not afraid to speak her mind and act independently. The plot includes a locked room murder mystery set in a girls' boarding school, reminiscent of classic mysteries by Agatha Christie and John Dickson Carr. The character development is praised for creating unique and well-rounded characters, adding depth to the story and keeping readers engaged.
Lindsay Gordon put murder to the back of her mind and settled down in the train compartment to enjoy the broken grays and greens of the Derbyshire scenery. Rather like home, she decided. Except that i...1987•276 pages - #8
A lively, engaging start to a series - ideal for fans of classic detective fiction and anyone curious to see Parker tackle a female lead, even if the Spenser-like vibe lingers. Not flawless, but definitely entertaining.
'Family Honor' in the 'Sunny Randall' series by Robert B. Parker introduces readers to the character of Sunny Randall, a tough and funny female private detective. The plot revolves around Sunny being hired to find a missing fifteen-year-old girl from a wealthy family. The story combines elements of excitement, detailed characterization, and a touch of humor, showcasing Sunny's unique approach to solving the case. The writing style is described as typical Parker'ish, full of life, laughs, and moving observations, making the book an engaging read for both newbies and seasoned fans of Robert B. Parker.
One of the good things about being a woman in my profession is that there's not many of us, so there's a lot of work available. One of the bad things is figuring out where to carry the gun. When I sta...1999•384 pages - #9
A romance with charm, chemistry, and cleverness, but be ready for a few meandering detours before you reach the happily ever after. Worth a try for historical romance adventurers!
In "A Study in Scoundrels" by Christy Carlyle, the story follows Jasper Grey, the second son of an Earl, who is known for his wild and debauched lifestyle until a tragedy changes him. When Jasper's sister goes missing, he enlists the help of Sophia Ruthven, a rule-abiding woman with a love for mysteries. Together, they embark on a journey to find his sister, navigating their differences and the growing attraction between them. The plot involves detective work, misunderstandings, and a developing relationship amidst the backdrop of historical society.
The book features a mix of romance, mystery, and character development, with a writing style that includes well-edited prose, likable characters, and intriguing plot twists. Readers are taken on a journey of discovery and growth as the protagonists face challenges, confront their pasts, and work together to unravel the mystery of the missing sister.
Laughter tickled his ears. Weight bore down on his chest, draped over his hips. A soft weight, pliant under his hands. Heated too. Pleasure in his groin twined with pain in his head as the soft, warm...May 2017•384 pages - #10
A punchy, provocative crime novel bursting with attitude - messy, darkly funny, sharply observant, but not for everyone.
Apocalypse Baby by Virginie Despentes is a dark and moody novel that follows the story of private detectives The Hyena and Lucie as they investigate the disappearance of a teenage girl named Valentine. The book delves into themes of youth culture, social critique, and the complexities of various characters' personalities. The writing style is described as enjoyably noir, with a mix of first-person narrative and third-person perspectives that provide a deep exploration of the characters and their motivations.
NOT SO LONG AGO, I WAS STILL THIRTY. ANYTHING could happen. You just had to make the right choice at the right moment. I often changed jobs, my short-term contracts weren’t renewed, I had no time to g...2010•350 pages










