Books Like...
"Sold Down the River" in the Benjamin January series by Barbara Hambly follows the protagonist, Benjamin January, as he reluctantly returns to a sugar plantation where he had once been a slave. Asked by his former owner to investigate a possible slave revolt, January goes undercover as a slave to uncover the truth behind the mysterious happenings on the plantation. As he delves deeper into the investigation, January navigates the complexities of relationships between the master and slaves, while also facing danger and the possibility of being sold down the river. The vivid descriptions of the plantation life, historical accuracy, and intricate plot make this book a compelling read for those interested in American history pre-Civil War era.
If you liked Sold Down the River, here are the top 2 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: Benjamin January)
- #1
Save:'My First Murder' by Leena Lehtolainen is a Finnish detective story featuring rookie detective Maria Kallio investigating the murder of a choir singer, Tommi Peltonen, at a seaside Helsinki villa. The book is described as a police procedural with a classic detective story structure, focusing on a small group of suspects and a puzzle to solve. The writing style is praised for its hard-boiled realism and likable protagonist, Maria Kallio, who navigates through a web of bitterness, passion, and jealousy among the choir members to uncover the truth behind the murder.
When the telephone rang, I was in the shower rinsing the salt off my skin. I heard my own voice on the answering machine and then a colleague’s urgent message to call him back. I had been able to enjo... - #2
Save:Set in Belfast during the troubled early 1980s, "The Cold Cold Ground" follows Detective Sean Duffy, a Catholic sergeant in the predominantly Protestant RUC, as he investigates what seems to be a homosexual killing with potential deeper sectarian motives at play. The story is enriched by vivid descriptions of Northern Ireland's unrest and the challenges faced by the police force, along with witty dialogue and strongly drawn characters that provide an authentic portrayal of the times and places depicted.
The plot unfolds against the backdrop of hunger strikes, riots, and political tensions, with Duffy navigating through a complex murder investigation that leads him to the top of the IRA, unveiling dark secrets and challenging societal norms. The book captures the essence of Belfast in the 1980s, blending elements of mystery, historical events, and political intrigue to create a compelling narrative that immerses readers in the turbulent atmosphere of the era.
The riot had taken on a beauty of its own now. Arcs of gasoline fire under the crescent moon. Crimson tracer in mystical parabolas. Phosphorescence from the barrels of plastic bullet guns. A distant y...
