Books matching: murder mystery plot
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- #1
'Magpie Murders' by Anthony Horowitz is a cleverly crafted mystery novel that presents a story within a story. It follows Susan Ryeland, an editor, as she delves into the mysteries surrounding a manuscript by a popular author, Alan Conway, which goes missing after his suspicious death. The narrative seamlessly weaves between the traditional British whodunit style of Conway's manuscript and the real-life mystery Susan finds herself entangled in, creating a metafictional delight for mystery fans. expertly pays homage to classic detective novels while offering a fresh and inventive take on the genre.
The writing style of 'Magpie Murders' is described as intelligent, classic, and reminiscent of Agatha Christie's works, with intricate plots, well-developed characters, and clever narrative devices. The book's structure, with two interconnected mysteries and a metafictional approach, keeps readers engaged and guessing until the satisfying conclusion. Horowitz's ability to blend different writing styles, explore themes of crime fiction, and deliver unexpected twists and turns throughout the narrative showcases his talent as a mystery writer.
A bottle of wine. A family-sized packet of Nacho Cheese Flavoured Tortilla Chips and a jar of hot salsa dip. A packet of cigarettes on the side (I know, I know). The rain hammering against the windows... - #2
'The 71/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle' by Stuart Turton is a complex murder mystery novel set in a country estate where the protagonist, Aiden Bishop, wakes up in a different body each day to solve the murder of Evelyn Hardcastle. The plot unfolds in a Groundhog Day-like scenario where Aiden must navigate through various perspectives and characters to unravel the mystery. The writing style is described as intricate, original, and engaging, offering a unique blend of genres like murder mystery, time travel, and psychological thriller.
My mind has gone blank. I don’t know who Anna is or why I’m calling her name. I don’t even know how I got here. I’m standing in a forest, shielding my eyes from the spitting rain. My heart’s thumping,... - #3
'Track of the Cat' by Nevada Barr follows the story of Anna Pigeon, a law enforcement ranger at Guadaloupe Mountains National Park in West Texas, who investigates the death of a fellow ranger supposedly mauled to death by a mountain lion. Despite opposition from her bosses, Anna suspects foul play and delves deep into the mystery, uncovering various suspects including the murdered ranger's lover, opponents of park policies, and a powerful rancher. The novel offers a decent whodunnit plot set in the backdrop of national parks, with Anna's character portrayed as a complex, imperfect protagonist with a strong spirit for protecting wildlife and solving crimes.
Anna Pigeon, a New York City widow turned park ranger, is depicted as a tough, detail-oriented protagonist with a knack for solving mysteries and a deep love for animals and nature. The writing style of Nevada Barr is praised for its emotional charge and vivid descriptions of the Texas landscape, bringing authenticity and a sense of immediacy to the story. balances set up with action effectively, making the reader eager to explore the next installment in the series.
THERE hadn't been a god for many years. Not the nightgown-clad patriarch of Sunday school coloring books; not the sensitive young man with the inevitable auburn ringlets Anna had stared through in the... - #4
'The Skull Beneath The Skin' by P.D. James follows the story of Cordelia Gray, a young private detective hired to protect a famous actress, Clarissa Lisle, who has been receiving death threats. Cordelia poses as the actress's secretary and accompanies her to an isolated island where she is set to star in a theatrical production. As murders start to occur on the island, Cordelia must navigate through a complex web of relationships and motives to uncover the culprit. The plot is dark and somber, with intricate subplots that wind together, keeping the reader engaged until the surprising end.
P.D. James' writing style in this book is described as classic English mystery, reminiscent of Agatha Christie. The author skillfully sets scenes, creates compelling characters, and weaves a mystery that goes beyond just the whodunit aspect. Cordelia Gray is portrayed as a strong protagonist, with readers finding her even more likable than Dalgleish, another popular character by the author. is praised for its solid plot, good character development, and the ability to keep readers guessing with its twists and turns.
There could be no doubt about it, the new name-plate was crooked. Cordelia had no need to adopt Bevis’s expedient of dodging through the mid-morning traffic which cluttered Kingly Street and squinting...
(Also, see 83 recommendations for the series Cordelia Gray ) - #5
In 'The Royal Wulff Murders' by Keith McCafferty, a fishing guide reels in the body of a young man, leading Sheriff Martha Ettinger to suspect murder. The sheriff crosses paths with Sean Stranahan, a newcomer to the state who is a fly fisher, painter, and ex-private detective. Stranahan is hired to find the brother of singer Velvet Lafayette, and as their cases intertwine, they uncover a mystery that links them together. The unfolding murder mystery, though slow to hook some readers, eventually picks up pace towards the end, weaving in elements of fly fishing expertise and a well-thought-out investigation.
The book is praised for its engaging characters, realistic descriptions of the Montana setting, and a gripping plot that keeps readers intrigued. Despite some unrealistic details and a slow start for some, the story comes together towards the end, making it an enjoyable read for those interested in a blend of mystery and outdoor landscapes.
Sean Stranahan leaned back in the swivel chair in his studio, paint-stained Crocs up on his desk, a tumbler stenciled with the emblem of The Famous Grouse in his right hand. A half-finished trout fly,... - #6
"Ripper" by Isabel Allende is a murder mystery novel set in contemporary San Francisco. The story revolves around a series of seemingly unrelated killings that a group of amateur detectives, playing an online role-playing game called Ripper, attempt to solve. The central characters include a diverse cast with complex backstories and complicated relationships, such as a holistic healer, a teenage girl interested in criminology, a wounded warrior, and a doting grandfather. As the plot unfolds, the amateur detectives find themselves investigating the murders in their hometown, trying to outthink the police department.
Despite the engaging plot involving a string of murders and the unique premise of amateur detectives solving crimes over the Internet, "Ripper" falls short in terms of character development and pacing. delves into detailed backstories for each character, including even a character's dog, which puts the narrative on hold and may hinder the reader's engagement. The pacing of the story is inconsistent, with some readers finding the narrative slow until the last few chapters where the action picks up, leading to a rushed and unsatisfying conclusion.
Mom is still alive, but she’s going to be murdered at midnight on Good Friday,” Amanda Martín told the deputy chief, who didn’t even think to question the girl; she’d already proved she knew more than... - #7
Ten people who don't know each other are invited by a Mr. Owen to spend their holidays on an island where there is nothing but a big mansion. After dinner a recording say them that in fact they are there to pay fot crimes they did in the past. The accusations are well founded and unable to leave the house, the guests are being killed off one by one in mysterious murder. The heartlessness of one particular character was the biggest surprise, and the figurine removal added to the tension. Each character struggles with their sordid past, while outwardly justifying themselves and denying guilt. The ten attempt to socialize and dine with one another, despite the fact that they know one of their number intends to murder them all.
He went over in his mind all that had appeared in the papers about Soldier Island. There had been its original purchase by an American millionaire who was crazy about yachting—and an account of the lu... - #8
Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie is a classic Hercule Poirot mystery set on a cruise along the Nile River in Egypt. The story revolves around the murder of a young, wealthy heiress named Linnet Ridgeway, which leads to a complex investigation involving a wide array of suspects with intricate motives. The book is praised for its exotic setting, intricate plot, and the sharp commentary on people's motivations and social norms, all presented in Agatha Christie's signature style of a quintessential English whodunnit.
A girl jumped out, a girl without a hat and wearing a frock that looked (but only looked) simple. A girl with golden hair and straight autocratic features—a girl with a lovely shape—a girl such as was...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Hercule Poirot ) - #9
Bobby Jones, the fourth son of the vicar, finds a dying man at the bottom of a cliff while playing golf. Despite the inquest ruling it as misadventure, Bobby and his friend Frankie believe there is more to it and decide to investigate. As they delve deeper, they uncover a complex and dangerous plot involving several murders, leading to them being targeted as potential victims. The book is described as a fast-paced mystery with plenty of twists and turns, featuring likable characters and a plot that keeps the readers engaged.
There were no eager crowds to groan with dismay. The solitary witness of the shot manifested no surprise. And that is easily explained—for it was not the American-born master of the game who had playe... - #10
In 'The Devotion of Suspect X', a math genius named Ishagami helps a woman, Yasuko, hide the murder of her ex-husband out of infatuation for her. The lead detective, Kusanagi, seeks help from his friend, physicist Yukawa, leading to an intellectual battle between two geniuses trying to construct the perfect crime and solve it using logic. The plot involves a murder, cover-ups, and unexpected twists that keep the reader engaged. The characters are well-developed, and the story provides an interesting glimpse into Japanese culture.
The book presents a murder mystery where the perpetrator is known from the beginning, focusing on how the police and their consultant unravel the crime. The plot is engaging, with intellectual skirmishes between the characters adding depth to the story. The writing style is described as quick-paced and readable, making it a fun and stimulating read for those interested in mysteries and cover-ups.
At 7:35 A.M. Ishigami left his apartment as he did every weekday morning. Just before stepping out onto the street, he glanced at the mostly full bicycle lot, noting the absence of the green bicycle. ...