Books matching: female lead in crime
100 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:Queenpin by Megan Abbott is a noir novel that follows a young woman who starts working at a small casino and quickly rises in the underworld using her looks and intelligence. The story delves into the complexities of loyalty, passion, lies, and violence as she navigates her relationships in the criminal world. The book is well-written, with a mysterious unnamed narrator who idolizes a legendary figure in the noir world, Gloria Denton, and aims to prove herself worthy of her mentor's attention.
It was a tall, pistachio-colored building along the scenic ridge outside of town. The lobby was covered with mirrors and tall, potted plants. There was an automatic elevator with a carpet in it and wh... - #2
Save:'A is for Alibi' by Sue Grafton introduces readers to private investigator Kinsey Millhone who is hired by Nikki Fife to investigate the murder of her husband, for which Nikki was recently released from prison. The story unfolds with Kinsey navigating through the case, revealing twists and turns as she delves deeper into the investigation. The writing style is described as quick and easy to read, with a mix of suspense, humor, and a historical feel due to the lack of modern technology in the storyline.
My name is Kinsey Millhone. I'm a private investigator, licensed by the state of California. I'm thirty-two years old, twice divorced, no kids. The day before yesterday I killed someone and the fact w... - #3
Save:"Murder at the Vicarage" by Agatha Christie is the first in the Miss Marple series, introducing the beloved character of Miss Jane Marple. Set in the village of St. Mary Mead, the story revolves around the murder of Colonel Protheroe in the vicar's study, leading to a plethora of suspects with motives to kill him. Miss Marple, an elderly and astute observer of human nature, takes it upon herself to uncover the truth behind the murder, despite facing resistance from the police and village residents.
Narrated by the vicar, the plot unfolds with intricate details, red herrings, and a cleverly laid out mystery that keeps readers engaged. The story showcases the village life, social dynamics, and the sharp wit of Miss Marple as she navigates through the suspects and clues to ultimately solve the murder, highlighting Agatha Christie's masterful storytelling and suspenseful writing style.
It is difficult to know quite where to begin this story, but I have fixed my choice on a certain Wednesday at luncheon at the Vicarage. The conversation, though in the main irrelevant to the matter in... - #4
Save:'Cocaine Blues' by Kerry Greenwood introduces readers to the independent and adventurous Phryne Fisher, a wealthy and modern female detective set in 1920s Melbourne. Phryne takes on various cases, from investigating a mysterious illness to delving into the issues of illegal abortions and drug smuggling. The plot is intertwined with social commentary on feminism, communism, and socialism, making it an engaging read that not only focuses on mysteries but also on the societal issues of the times. is praised for its detailed descriptions of the era, strong character development, and the introduction of a cast of interesting and diverse characters that accompany Phryne in her investigations.
Phryne Fisher stood quietly and groped for a cigarette lighter. So far the evening had been tedious. After the strenuous preparations for what was admittedly the social event of the year, the dinner h... - #5
Save:'The Salaryman's Wife' by Sujata Massey is a mystery novel set in 1990s Japan, following the adventures of Rei Shimura, an American dealing in antiques who gets entangled in solving mysteries. The book weaves a complex series of 'who done its' into one plot, keeping the identity of the villain a mystery until the very end. The writing style is described as masterful, with well-developed and complicated characters, particularly Rei Shimura, who is portrayed as a glamorous yet down-to-earth Japanese American. The author's multicultural perspective is refreshing and informative, inviting readers into a world filled with east-west clashes specific to Japan.
I suppose there are worse places to spend New Year’s Eve than a crowded train with a stranger’s hand inching up your thigh. A crowded train undergoing a nerve gas attack? That could mean true death in... - #6
Save:'A Grave Talent' by Laurie R. King is the first book in the Kate Martinelli series, introducing readers to the character of Kate Martinelli, a female detective in a lesbian relationship, and her male detective partner, Al Hawkins. The story revolves around a complex mystery involving dead girls turning up in a similar fashion to a murder from many years ago, near where the convicted killer is living. The book is praised for its compelling storyline, well-defined characters, and the seamless integration of technology advancements from the early 1990s.
Before dawn that morning Tommy had left his cabin with his venerable and marginally accurate deer rifle under his arm and a handful of shells in his pocket, his heart set on a supply of illicit veniso... - #7
Save:"Be Still My Heart" by Emily McIntire is a romantic mystery book set in the small town of Skelm Island, where a series of murders unravel dark secrets. The story follows Sloane, a detective brought in to solve the murders, and Lincoln, a grumpy man who gets involved in the case. As the plot twists and turns, readers are taken on a roller coaster ride of suspense, romance, and mystery. The writing style is described as captivating, with well-written murder mystery plots, engaging character development, and a perfect mix of dark elements and romance.
My sister’s penetrating voice pierces the quiet of my bedroom, crackling from the speaker down the hall. Throwing an arm over my face, I roll onto my back and stare up at the sloped ceiling, muscle me... - #8
Save:"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... - #9
Save:'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... - #10
Save:Claire DeWitt, a unique and intuitive private detective, returns to New Orleans post-Katrina to investigate the disappearance of a District Attorney. Using unconventional methods like dreams, visions, and the teachings of a French detective, Claire navigates through the damaged city, unraveling a dark and gritty mystery that delves into poverty, crime, and corruption. The book offers a vivid and heart-wrenching portrayal of post-Katrina New Orleans, seamlessly blending the past with the present in a noir and zen-like narrative style.
A crow flew overhead as we talked. I was in Northern California, near Santa Rosa. I sat at a picnic table by a clump of redwoods. A blue jay squawked nearby. Crows used to be bad omens, but now they w...
