Books matching: kidnapping mystery
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:A beautifully strange award-winning novel that blends magical realism, myth, and small-town secrets. Perfect for readers who want something unique, emotional, and a little bit mysterious - but may not work if you crave clear-cut logic or fast-paced action.
'Bone Gap' by Laura Ruby is a young adult novel that weaves together elements of mystery, magical realism, and romance. The story follows Finn, an outsider in a small town, who witnesses the kidnapping of his friend Roza but struggles to describe the assailant due to his difficulty with facial recognition. As Finn tries to unravel the mystery of Roza's disappearance, the narrative shifts between different characters' perspectives, revealing the impact on the community and exploring themes of love, loss, and self-acceptance. With lyrical prose and a touch of fantasy, 'Bone Gap' takes readers on a journey through a world where reality and magic intertwine, leaving them questioning beauty, identity, and the blurred lines between the seen and unseen.
Laura Ruby's writing style in 'Bone Gap' has been praised for its beautiful prose, engaging storytelling, and use of magical realism. The novel is described as a coming-of-age tale, a surreal fairy tale, and a blend of mystery and romance, offering readers a unique and captivating reading experience. Through the vivid characterization of Finn, Roza, and other inhabitants of Bone Gap, Ruby crafts a narrative that explores the complexities of relationships, the power of perception, and the mysteries that lie within the gaps of memory and reality.
It had been a warm winter and a balmy spring in Bone Gap, so everyone with a field and a taste for corn had plowed and planted earlier than they’d ever dared before. On the last day of his junior year...March 2015•373 pages - #2
Save:A satisfying and clever conclusion to a beloved YA mystery trilogy! Come for the puzzles, stay for the strong characters and a setting you’ll wish was real.
Stevie's story continues in this final book of the trilogy, as she navigates mysterious riddles and tracks down a missing character while facing a killer amidst a massive storm. The book unravels the mysteries of the past kidnapping in the 1930s and its influence on present-day events at Stevie's Vermont school, Ellingham Academy.
THE BONES WERE ON THE TABLE, NAKED AND CHALKY. THE EYE SOCKETS hollow, the mouth in a loose grimace, as if to say, “Yep, it’s me. Bet you’re wondering how I ended up here. It’s a funny story, actually...January 2020•383 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Truly Devious ) - #3
Save:"The Bodyguard's Prince" in the series "The Royal Wedding" by Caroline Lee follows the story of Prince Alek and his female bodyguard, Toni, as they navigate a sinister plot involving kidnapping and intimidation. combines elements of suspense and romance, showcasing the strong and compassionate Queen, the complex relationship between the characters, and the development of Alek from a stiff royal to a more relatable individual. The writing style is described as fast-paced, engaging, and creating a fairy tale-like atmosphere within a modern setting.
Alek managed not to roll his eyes, but just barely. Could his mother have chosen a more clichéd way to start the “emergency family meeting” she’d called this morning? And what could she have possibly...April 2018•178 pages - #4
Save:A twisty, deeply unsettling thriller with unforgettable characters - despite some implausible leaps and dark subject matter, "Judas Child" is a gripping, emotional read perfect for fans of character-driven crime fiction.
"Judas Child" by Carol O'Connell is a standalone mystery thriller that follows the story of a child trying to escape from her abductor. The plot is riveting, with a shocking twist at the end that keeps readers hooked into the night. The story unfolds in a small town where two children are abducted, leading to a complex investigation that delves into the past crimes of the community.
The writing style of Carol O'Connell is described as sharp, emotionally cutting, and engrossing. The characters are well-developed, evoking strong emotions in readers. The novel presents multiple points of view, adding depth to the plot and resulting in an ending that surprises and shocks readers.
The boy’s front wheel wobbled at the exact moment he braked to a dead stop. And then the child resigned himself to the short flight over the handlebars, all but shrugging in midair. The hard landing o...1998•432 pages - #5
Save:A moody, atmospheric debut that kicks off an acclaimed series - rich in Italian flavor, complex characters, and dark intrigue. Worth a try for thoughtful mystery fans who don’t mind a slow burn.
"Ratking" in the Aurelio Zen series by Michael Dibdin follows Commissario Zen as he investigates a kidnapping case involving a wealthy industrialist and his family, revealing a tangled web of corruption, power struggles, and dark family secrets in the venal world of Italian public life. The story unfolds in Perugia, showcasing Zen's resourcefulness in the face of insuperable corruption and his ability to outsmart those who constantly underestimate him. The writing style is described as cynical and dark, capturing the essence of Italy in the late 1980s through vivid descriptions of the setting and characters.
“Patient! Patient! Excuse me, but in my humble opinion what this country needs is a few people who will no longer be patient! People who refuse to suffer patiently the bungling and incompetence with w...1988•271 pages - #6
Save:A clever, high-energy Regency romance with a strong, resourceful heroine and plenty of intrigue - a must-read for fans who like mystery with their historicals, though purists may find it a bit unconventional.
'Duke of My Heart' by Kelly Bowen is a regency romance novel that follows the story of Ivory Moore, a skilled investigator who is hired to solve a mystery involving the Duke of Harcourt. The plot intertwines romance, mystery, and intrigue as Ivory and the Duke work together to uncover clues and solve puzzles. The writing style is described as clever, full of surprises, and engaging, with well-developed intelligent characters that draw the readers in.
It shimmered where the candlelight danced across its surface, its rich crimson and sumptuous garnet hues swirling in the cascading lengths. The silken ribbon was wide, its superior quality was evident...January 2016•368 pages - #7
Save:A heartfelt YA adventure about friendship and micro-superpowers. Not Card’s deepest work, but it’s a moving, quirky, and surprisingly emotional read for those who want a character-driven story with a twist.
'Lost and Found' in the 'Micropowers' series by Orson Scott Card is a coming-of-age novel that follows the complicated friendship between Ezekiel and Beth, two loners with special powers. Ezekiel, an outcast due to his micro power of finding lost items, reluctantly allows Beth into his life as they team up to solve a mystery involving kidnapped girls. The story is a mix of a compelling situation, a fast-moving storyline, and emotionally satisfying relationships, all woven together with Card's signature clever dialogues and occasional humorous quips.
Ezekiel Blast liked to walk to school alone. Not that he liked anything about going to school. But since he had to go there, and the transportation choices were (1) crowded schoolbus, (2) Dad driving...September 2019•293 pages - #8
Save:A funny and heartfelt Southern mystery with a cast you won’t forget - just quirky enough to charm, with a puzzle that will keep you guessing. Great for readers who love character-driven mysteries and don’t mind a dollop of small-town tall tale.
Three Times Lucky by Sheila Turnage is a charming mystery novel set in a small town in North Carolina called Tupelo Landing. The story follows Mo LoBeau, an 11-year-old girl who was found as a baby after a hurricane and raised by the Colonel and Miss Lana. When a murder occurs in Tupelo Landing, Mo, along with her best friend Dale, take it upon themselves to solve the mystery. Through quirky characters, engaging storytelling, and a unique voice, the book unfolds a delightful tale of friendship, mystery, and determination.
The book is praised for its original characters, Southern charm, and engaging mystery plot. Mo's character, with her humor, determination, and unyielding spirit, draws readers into the story as she navigates the complexities of small-town life and uncovers the truth behind the murder. Sheila Turnage's writing style, filled with vivid descriptions and masterful storytelling, captures the essence of Tupelo Landing and its eccentric inhabitants, making the book a delightful and engaging read for both children and adults.
Trouble cruised into Tupelo Landing at exactly seven minutes past noon on Wednesday, the third of June, flashing a gold badge and driving a Chevy Impala the color of dirt. Almost before the dust had s...May 2012•328 pages A delightful, challenging throwback that will entertain puzzle-loving sleuths, though a couple puzzles may leave you scratching your head.
'Alfred Hitchcock's Solve-Them-Yourself Mysteries' is a collection of juvenile mysteries written by Robert Arthur, Jr. The book features five mysteries that challenge readers to solve them before reaching the conclusion. Each story provides subtle clues and challenges the reader's problem-solving skills. The writing style is engaging, with well-written stories that captivate readers and keep them engaged until the end. The book offers a mix of suspense, mystery, and clever plot twists that make it a thrilling read for young adults.
Readers are taken on a journey through various mysteries, from thefts at a circus to locked room puzzles and suspenseful kidnapping situations. The stories are designed to be solved by the reader, encouraging them to pay attention to details and think critically to unravel the mysteries. With each story presenting a unique challenge and featuring teenage investigators, the book provides an entertaining and educational experience for young readers interested in solving puzzles and mysteries.
September 1963•254 pages- #10
Save:A fresh, entertaining take on the Holmes universe - rich in history, adventure, and character depth. Well worth a read for Sherlockians and historical mystery fans alike!
The book 'Mycroft Holmes' by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar immerses readers in a captivating narrative featuring Mycroft and his friend Cyrus Douglas as they dive into a kidnapping mystery while leaving most of the investigative work to a novice Sherlock. The plot unfolds at a brisk pace, seamlessly weaving together historical themes like a European financial crisis and arms dealing, while also spotlighting the characters' emotional depths and backstories.
Abdul-Jabbar's writing style boasts engaging descriptions and clever dialogue but occasionally strays with anachronistic elements. Set in the late 19th century, the story creatively depicts locations like Trinidad, enhancing the atmosphere with vibrant cultural details. Strong character development is evident, particularly in Mycroft, who evolves from a sociable young man into the stoic figure familiar from Arthur Conan Doyle's tales.
AS THE REED-GREEN WATER LAPPED GENTLY AGAINST THE BANKS of the Thames, spectators on Putney Bridge and along the shoreline crowded shoulder to shoulder and craned their necks, vying for a better view....September 2015•339 pages
