Books matching: modern day london setting
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- #1
Save:A bold, twist-heavy supernatural thriller that’ll keep you guessing - though not everyone agrees it’s Shan at his strongest. Best for fans of edgy mysteries and psychological suspense.
"Lady of the Shades" by Darren Shan is a suspenseful thriller with a hint of the supernatural that follows the main character, Ed, through a rollercoaster of events. The plot twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats, questioning the reality of ghosts and the protagonist's state of mind. The writing style, delivered in the first person, adds to the mystery and suspense, leading readers down unexpected paths and surprising them with a captivating ending.
The book is a standalone title that blends elements of different genres, making it an interesting and enjoyable read for a wide audience. Darren Shan's return to writing for adults showcases his ability to create a fast-paced and brutal action-packed story with well-constructed mystery elements. Overall, "Lady of the Shades" is a compelling novel that challenges readers' perceptions and keeps them guessing until the last chapter.
August 2012•320 pages - #2
Save:A promising start to a new series with thoughtful world-building, likable underdog hero, and a fresh take on magic. It’s a must for Jacka fans and anyone who enjoys character-driven progression fantasy.
'An Inheritance of Magic' by Benedict Jacka is a new series that introduces readers to a world where magic is controlled by a corrupt elite. The protagonist, Stephen Oakwood, is a young man struggling financially and lacking magical education. As he navigates through his quest for safety, security, and magic, readers are taken on a journey of overcoming loneliness and forming connections with others in modern-day London. The book is praised for its detailed descriptions of magic, realistic world-building, and relatable characters, setting the stage for an engrossing new series.
October 2023•371 pages - #3
Save:A smart, inventive detective mystery with a meta twist - perfect for fans of classic whodunits and clever storytelling, though the self-referential style may not be to everyone’s taste.
'The Word Is Murder' by Anthony Horowitz is a cleverly crafted murder mystery that follows the investigation of the murder of a woman, Diana Cowper, who is found dead in her home just hours after arranging her own funeral. The story centers around a unique partnership between a disgraced ex-detective, Daniel Hawthorne, and author Anthony Horowitz, who is roped in to write a true crime book about the case. Horowitz skillfully blends fact and fiction, inserting himself as a character in the narrative, leading to a compelling mix of real events and imaginative storytelling. As the duo delves into the case, they uncover a web of motives, suspects, and twists that keep the reader guessing until the surprising solution is revealed.
The book weaves together multiple storylines, including a double murder case involving Diana Cowper and her son, adding layers of complexity to the central mystery. Horowitz's writing style incorporates elements of metafiction, humor, and intricate plotting to create a captivating narrative that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. With a rich cast of characters, red herrings, and gradual elimination of suspects, 'The Word Is Murder' offers a riveting exploration of crime-solving, character dynamics, and the interplay between the author's own life and the fictional world he creates.
Just after eleven o’clock on a bright spring morning, the sort of day when the sunshine is almost white and promises a warmth that it doesn’t quite deliver, Diana Cowper crossed the Fulham Road and we...August 2017•400 pages - #4
Save:A solid, classic-style mystery with memorable characters and plenty of London grit - perfect for fans of detective fiction, but possibly too slow and detailed for those seeking nonstop thrills.
Set in modern-day London, 'The Cuckoo's Calling' follows Cormoran Strike, a down-on-his-luck private detective, as he investigates the death of supermodel Lula Landry. With the help of his temp secretary, Robin, Strike delves into a complex mystery involving possible suspects, red herrings, and unexpected plot twists. The book is praised for its well-developed characters, engaging writing style, and classic detective story elements.
THOUGH ROBIN ELLACOTT’S TWENTY-FIVE YEARS of life had seen their moments of drama and incident, she had never before woken up in the certain knowledge that she would remember the coming day for as lon...January 2013•496 pages - #5
Save:Heartfelt and swoony with strong family feels; great for fans of accidental pregnancy romance, but might seem a bit formulaic to others.
'Floored' in the 'Ward Sisters' series by Karla Sorensen tells the story of Lia and Jude, two complex characters navigating unexpected challenges and emotions. Lia, a strong and mature woman, finds herself pregnant and faces the reality of impending parenthood with determination and grace. Jude, a broken man with a tough childhood, struggles to come to terms with this new chapter in his life. As they both question themselves and each other, they embark on a journey of growth and self-discovery, ultimately learning that facing the hard questions can lead to a rewarding and fulfilling relationship. Set against the backdrop of London, the story explores themes of love, family bonds, and personal transformation, capturing the hearts of readers with its emotional depth and relatable characters.
The writing style in 'Floored' is described as heartwarming, touching, and filled with passion and chemistry between Lia and Jude. Karla Sorensen's storytelling immerses readers in the world of the Ward family, showcasing the strong bonds between siblings and the complexities of relationships. delves into themes of love, loyalty, and overcoming past traumas, creating a captivating narrative that resonates with readers looking for a blend of romance, emotion, and character development.
For two weeks, I'd been in the place I'd dreamed of for as long as I could remember. Great Britain, with its monarchs and history and architecture and ugh, just everything. And as I sat on the steps a...November 2020•300 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Ward Sisters ) - #6
Save:The Cockroach by Ian McEwan is a satirical novella that mixes contemporary British politics with elements from Kafka's Metamorphosis. The story follows Jim Sams, a cockroach who wakes up in the body of the UK Prime Minister amidst a farcical political situation tied to Brexit. McEwan uses this absurd premise to explore the crazy dynamics of political power in Britain, introducing the fictional economic concept of 'Reversalism' where money flows in reverse, humorously reflecting the disarray in UK politics.
McEwan's writing style is crisp and engaging, drawing readers into a vividly described world. His sharp wit shines through as he presents a humorous yet critical take on the absurdity of modern political discourse. However, some found it to be lacking depth, viewing the satire as superficial. Despite mixed reviews, many appreciate McEwan's comedic approach to serious topics, highlighting his ability to entertain while addressing contemporary issues.
October 2019•110 pages - #7
Save:A standout debut that skillfully blends police procedural with family drama - a must for mystery lovers who enjoy depth, flawed detectives, and plenty of surprising twists.
Caz Frear's 'Sweet Little Lies' follows DC Cat Kinsella, a London police officer, as she investigates a murder case that hits close to home, uncovering long-buried secrets from her past. The plot weaves between a police procedural and a family drama, keeping readers engaged with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations. The writing style is described as detailed, realistic, and engaging, with well-crafted characters and an absorbing storyline that delves into the complexities of family relationships and the impact of past events on the present.
Welcome to a slow nightshift with Murder Investigation Team 4. Where the only crime under investigation is “Who ate the last of DS Parnell’s mince pies?” and the only questions come courtesy of Chris...June 2017•480 pages - #8
Save:A festive, emotional, sometimes frustrating ride through missed chances and real-life messiness. If you love tangled romances, flawed but relatable characters, and stories about friendship and fate, give this one a go - just don’t expect to breeze through it drama-free.
One Day in December by Josie Silver is a heartwarming tale of love at first sight and missed chances. The story follows Laurie, who falls hopelessly in love with a stranger she spots at a bus stop, only to later discover that he is her best friend's new boyfriend, Jack. Spanning a period of ten years, the novel explores the complexities of relationships, friendships, and the concept of falling in love versus staying in love. Despite the obstacles and challenges they face, readers are taken on a journey filled with emotional twists and turns, ultimately leading to a blissful ending that is both authentic and satisfying.
The book is narrated from multiple perspectives, providing insights into the characters' thoughts and emotions as they navigate through life's uncertainties and unexpected turns. With themes of friendship, love, and personal growth, One Day in December offers a relatable and thought-provoking exploration of the intricacies of human relationships and the enduring power of love.
It’s a wonder everyone who uses public transport in winter doesn’t keel over and die of germ overload. In the last ten minutes I’ve been coughed on and sneezed at, and if the woman in front of me shak...October 2017•447 pages - #9
Save:A fun, steamy ride through a fresh paranormal world - great for fans of fated mates and passionate, action-packed fantasy romance. Give it a try if you love your romances with elves, adventure, and plenty of heat!
'Kissed by a Dark Prince' by Felicity Heaton is the first book in the 'Eternal Mates' series, introducing readers to a world filled with paranormal species and a complex storyline. The book follows the story of Olivia, a scientist working with a demon hunting organization called 'Archangel', who crosses paths with Loren, an elf prince battling his brother Vail. As Loren and Olivia's fated bond begins to form, they find themselves entangled in a world of mystery, action, and romance. The writing style is described as fast-paced, action-packed, and filled with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged from start to finish.
Olivia thinks it’s her lucky night when a dangerously handsome unconscious fae ends up on her inspection table. He’s her chance to redeem herself with her employer, the demon-hunting organisation, Arc...November 2013•266 pages - #10
Save:A charming, cozy royal romcom with tons of heart, lovable characters, and just the right amount of angst. Perfect for slow-burn lovers and readers who adore quirky, feel-good love stories.
'Codename Charming' by Lucy Parker is a charming and humorous romance novel that follows the story of Pet and Matthias, who are forced to fake a relationship to dispel rumors. The book showcases a slow-burn romance between two opposites, with elements of Beauty and the Beast woven into the narrative. Through witty banter, delightful characters, and unexpected depth in exploring the protagonists' backgrounds, the author creates a captivating story that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
The writing style of 'Codename Charming' is praised for its humor, lovable characters, and engaging plot. The book seamlessly builds on the world and characters introduced in the previous installment, 'Battle Royal,' incorporating delightful cameos and exploring the vulnerabilities and complexities of the main characters. With elements of workplace romance, forced proximity, and a touch of mystery, the novel offers a perfect blend of romance and humor, making it a delightful and engaging read for fans of the genre.
August 2023•384 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Palace Insiders )
