Books matching: amateur detective
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- #1
Save:Fun, fast, and full of cliffhangers - The Amateurs is a solid pick for YA mystery fans who love a good plot twist and don't mind a dash of messy romance along the way.
The Amateurs by Sara Shepard is a murder mystery book that follows the story of Aerin Kelly, whose sister, Helena, was killed five years ago. Seeking help, Aerin posts on an online forum dedicated to solving cold cases, Case Not Closed (CNC). Two amateur sleuths, Seneca Frazier and Maddy Wright, along with other members, join forces to investigate Helena's murder. As they delve deeper into the case, they face explosive relationship dynamics and physical threats, uncovering clues and unearthing major leads.
The book is fast-paced, filled with plot twists, and cliffhangers at the end of each chapter, keeping readers engaged and eager to find out what happens next. The writing style is organized and clear, making it easy to follow the storyline. The characters are a mix of likable and relatable teens, each playing a pivotal role in solving the mystery, with unexpected plot twists that keep the reader on edge until the surprising ending.
ON THURSDAY NIGHT, just before school was off for spring break, Seneca Frazier sat cross-legged on her bed in her small dorm room at the University of Maryland. It was after 11:00 p.m., and the dorm w...2016•328 pages - #2
Save:A charming, lighthearted puzzle with lovable characters and plenty of cozy vibes - best enjoyed by those who don't mind a little make-believe with their murder mysteries.
'The Marlow Murder Club' by Robert Thorogood is a cozy mystery set in the sleepy town of Marlow, where an unlikely trio of amateur detectives, Judith, Becks, and Suzie, find themselves investigating a series of murders. The plot revolves around the quirky characters, suspenseful storyline, and comedic elements, all set against the backdrop of the English river setting. The book follows the adventures of these three women as they assist the struggling police force in solving the murders, showcasing their unusual skills and hidden secrets along the way.
The writing style of 'The Marlow Murder Club' is described as light-hearted, engaging, and humorous, reminiscent of traditional Agatha Christie-style mysteries. The book is praised for its cleverly constructed plot, quick pacing, and the development of unique and recognizable characters. Despite some implausible plot points, the novel offers an enjoyable and entertaining read, with elements of suspense, comedy, and a touch of eccentricity that keeps readers engaged till the end.
Mrs Judith Potts was seventy-seven years old and entirely happy with her life. She lived in an Arts and Crafts mansion on the River Thames, she had a job she loved that took up just enough of her time...January 2021•348 pages - #3
Save:A smart, funny, and delightfully heartwarming mystery that’s equal parts charm and intrigue - perfect for fans of character-driven, cozy crime with plenty of British flair.
'The Thursday Murder Club' by Richard Osman is a cozy mystery novel set in a luxury retirement village where a group of senior citizens, known as the Thursday Murder Club, come together to solve cold cases. When a real murder occurs within their retirement community, the group finds themselves entangled in a present-day murder investigation. The book is praised for its witty writing style, well-developed characters, and engaging plot that combines humor, mystery, and a touch of realism about aging and friendship.
The story follows the quirky members of the Thursday Murder Club, including Elizabeth, Joyce, Ron, and Ibrahim, as they navigate the complexities of solving a murder while dealing with their own personal struggles and relationships. The novel cleverly weaves together multiple plotlines, red herrings, and unexpected twists, keeping readers guessing until the very end. With a mix of humor, pathos, and clever storytelling, 'The Thursday Murder Club' offers a delightful and entertaining read that celebrates the power of friendship and the thrill of solving mysteries in a unique setting.
I knew who she was, of course; everybody here knows Elizabeth. She has one of the three-bed flats in Larkin Court. It’s the one on the corner, with the decking? Also, I was once on a quiz team with St...September 2020•407 pages - #4
Save:A fun, paranormal-flavored cozy that’s a little darker than the norm, with engaging characters and surprises throughout. An entertaining start to a unique series - perfect for cozy mystery and paranormal fans alike!
"Ghost of a Chance" in the series "Chintz 'n China Mystery" by Yasmine Galenorn follows the story of Emerald O'Brien, a divorced mom who owns a tea shop and can communicate with the dead. When a ghost, Susan Mitchell, appears seeking help in solving her murder, Emerald is drawn into a mystery involving ghosts, murder, and amateur detective work. With the support of her friends and family, including her children and two best friends, Emerald navigates the challenges of running her shop, raising her kids, and dealing with supernatural occurrences in her small town of Chiqetaw, WA.
My name is Emerald O’Brien and I never set out to be a detective, but when Susan Mitchell’s ghost appeared in my bedroom and told me that she’d been murdered, my life took a U-turn and I’ve never look...2003•273 pages - #5
Save:A charming, tongue-in-cheek mystery for fans of cozy whodunits, quirky characters, and British true crime tours - more amusing romp than full-throttle thriller.
In the book 'Missing Susan' by Sharyn McCrumb, readers are taken on a mystery tour of England where newlywed Elizabeth MacPherson finds herself amidst a group of tourists visiting famous murder sites. Little does she know that their tour guide, Rowan Rover, has been hired to murder one of the tourists, the obnoxious Susan Cohen. As the group travels through England, accidents befall them, and Elizabeth must uncover the truth behind the mysterious events unfolding during their trip. With a mix of humor, suspense, and unexpected twists, the book keeps readers engaged as they follow the unfolding murder mystery and the interactions between the eccentric characters on the tour.
The plot of 'Missing Susan' is filled with humor, interesting side stories about famous murder mysteries in Britain's history, and a cleverly constructed mystery that keeps readers guessing until the end. Sharyn McCrumb's writing style in this book seamlessly blends elements of mystery, humor, and historical background, creating an entertaining and engaging read for fans of light-hearted mysteries with a touch of wit and suspense.
IN A DINGY and antiquated district of east London called Whitechapel, the shivering drabs huddled against a faded brick wall, thinking of Jack the Ripper. It was twilight, and a piercing March wind to...1991•299 pages
(Also, see 32 recommendations for the series Elizabeth MacPherson ) - #6
Save:A witty, classic series about a Victorian gentleman thief and his devoted sidekick - fun, clever, and a must for fans of old-school crime fiction and Holmesian twists, but perhaps not for those craving modern grit or intricacy.
'Raffles: The Amateur Cracksman' by E.W. Hornung follows the adventures of A.J. Raffles, a gentleman thief and skilled cricket player, along with his reluctant accomplice and chronicler, Bunny. The book consists of a series of short stories that showcase Raffles' clever schemes and daring heists, set in late Victorian England. The writing style is reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes stories, with a focus on the criminal activities of the protagonists and the moral dilemmas they face, all narrated from Bunny's perspective.
IT was half-past twelve when I returned to the Albany as a last desperate resort. The scene of my disaster was much as I had left it. The baccarat-counters still strewed the table, with the empty glas...1886•240 pages - #7
Save:A cozy mystery that charms with its rich food culture and relatable family ties - just be ready for a slower pace and lots of cravings for bubble tea!
Death by Bubble Tea is a cozy mystery set in a night market where cousins Yale and Celine become amateur sleuths after a murder occurs. The story features unique Asian food descriptions, cultural additions, and family ties, with the plot unfolding through the investigation of multiple suspects. The writing style is engaging, gradually developing the characters and their relationships as the mystery evolves.
It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single woman in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a book. To that end, I strolled with purpose from my residence to The Literary Narnia to...July 2022•303 pages - #8
Save:A charming and witty start to a cozy mystery series - think culinary capers, tangled relationships, and plenty of heart. Grab this if you love a good puzzle and a taste of homey fun.
'The Diva Runs Out of Thyme' in the Domestic Diva Mystery series by Krista Davis follows the story of Sophie Winston, a party planner and columnist, who finds herself entangled in a murder mystery when she stumbles upon a dead body in her neighborhood. With Thanksgiving festivities, a stuffing competition, quirky family dynamics, and a dash of romance with Detective Wolf, Sophie must navigate through a web of suspects to clear her name. The plot unfolds with humor, delightful recipes, and a cozy writing style that keeps readers engaged till the end.
Live on Good Morning Washington! Special guest in the Washington, DC, television studio: Natasha “My very favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. No other day is so much about family and friends and fabulou...2008•307 pages - #9
Save:Roger Sheringham, a smug and flawed amateur detective, is tasked with investigating the mysterious death of Mrs. Vane in a small English town. Alongside his cousin Anthony, Sheringham navigates through a web of suspects and red herrings to uncover the truth behind the murders. The plot twists and turns like a sea serpent, keeping readers engaged with lively banter, well-defined characters, and a balance of humor and mystery. The narrative, set in the 1920s, features a classic whodunit style with an amateur sleuth pitted against a professional detective, leading to a surprising and satisfying resolution.
Despite its dated writing style and thinly sketched characters, 'Roger Sheringham and the Vane Mystery' offers an enjoyable read for fans of classic crime stories. The book showcases a cleverly crafted plot with intricate details, unexpected twists, and engaging dialogue between the characters. The bantering undertone adds to the entertainment value, making it a worthwhile read for those who appreciate Golden Age mysteries.
“If,” said Roger Sheringham, helping himself to a third piece of toast, “your brain had as many kinks in it as your trousers have few, Anthony, you would have had the intelligence to find out our trai...1927•212 pages
(Also, see 19 recommendations for the series Roger Sheringham Cases ) - #10
Save:A witty, cleverly-plotted vintage mystery with memorable characters - perfect for classic whodunit fans willing to roll with a few old-fashioned quirks.
"Fer-de-Lance" by Rex Stout introduces readers to the eccentric detective Nero Wolfe and his smart sidekick Archie Goodwin in their first mystery together. Set in 1930s New York, the plot revolves around Wolfe being asked to find a missing Italian immigrant, which leads to the investigation of the murder of a college president on a golf course. The story is narrated through Archie's witty and wise-cracking perspective, highlighting the dynamic between the two characters as they solve the case with a touch of humor and clever deduction. The writing style captures the essence of the time period and sets the stage for a series of engaging mysteries with unique characters and intriguing plotlines.
There was no reason why I shouldn’t have been sent for the beer that day, for the last ends of the Fairmont National Bank case had been gathered in the week before and there was nothing for me to do b...1934•294 pages
