Books matching: murder scheme
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- #1
"Colour Scheme" by Ngaio Marsh is set in New Zealand during World War II and follows Inspector Alleyn investigating a murder at a thermal spa resort. The story involves a cast of intriguing characters, including a vulgar businessman, a famous actor, a seedy drunk, and various Maori characters. The plot is infused with elements of espionage, exoticism, and a thread of romance, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the geysers and thermal features of Rotorua.
The narrative unfolds in a captivating setting filled with hot springs, boiling mud pots, and a Maori village, creating a hellish ambiance that intensifies the stage for murder. The mystery involves a complex web of relationships and conflicts among the characters, leading to a sly, vengeful, and cruel crime that keeps readers engaged. Inspector Alleyn's late appearance adds to the intrigue, while the detailed descriptions and well-developed characters bring the setting and players to life.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Roderick Alleyn ) - #2
In 'Double Indemnity', insurance salesman Walter Huff becomes entangled with the femme fatale Phyllis Nirdlinger, leading to a plot to murder her husband for the insurance money. The story unfolds with intricate murder plots, double crosses, and a dark, twisted tale of crime set in 1930s Los Angeles. Written in a hard-boiled style, the book delves into themes of murder, betrayal, revenge, and questions about human nature, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
I drove out to Glendale to put three new truck drivers on a brewery company bond, and then I remembered this renewal over in Hollywoodland. I decided to run over there. That was how I came to this Hou... - #3
In "Jennifer Government" by Max Barry, the story is set in an alternate present where corporations wield immense power, influencing every aspect of society. The plot revolves around a world where taxes are illegal, employees take on the surnames of the companies they work for, and the government is reduced to a figurehead, unable to challenge the dominance of corporate entities. The narrative follows a cast of characters as they navigate a dystopian society where capitalism reigns supreme, exploring themes of consumerism, corporate greed, and the consequences of a world driven by profit.
The writing style of the book is described as satirical and fast-paced, offering a clever and entertaining look at a future where big businesses control the world. The author, Max Barry, creates a believable and thought-provoking world that delves into the darker aspects of human nature, all while maintaining a sense of humor and intrigue throughout the narrative.
Hack first heard about Jennifer Government at the water-cooler. He was only there because the one on his floor was out; Legal was going to come down on Nature's Springs like a ton of shit, you could b... True Evil by Greg Iles is a suspenseful thriller that follows FBI agent Alex Morse as she investigates a scheme involving a doctor and a lawyer who help wealthy clients avoid messy divorces by arranging the murder of their spouses. The plot unfolds with dark twists and turns, revealing a complex web of deceit and murder. The writing style is described as engaging, with detailed medical information adding depth to the storyline and keeping readers hooked until the end.
Alex Morse charged through the lobby of the new University Medical Center like a doctor to a code call, but she was no doctor. She was a hostage negotiator for the FBI. Twenty minutes earlier, Alex ha...- #5
Night Birds on Nantucket follows the adventures of Dido Twite, who awakens on a Nantucket whaler after being rescued from a shipwreck in the arctic. Tasked with helping Captain Casket's daughter, Dutiful Penitence, face her fears, Dido must navigate a mystery and adventure story with a touch of humor. The book is praised for its quirky characters, whimsical plot twists, and nods to literary classics like Moby Dick.
The writing style of Night Birds on Nantucket is described as fun, adventurous, and filled with humor. Readers enjoy the feisty and pure-hearted protagonist, Dido Twite, as she fearlessly takes on challenges and uncovers a murderous scheme to assassinate the king of England. The book is commended for its ability to engage both young and adult readers with its rich storytelling and unique blend of whimsy and suspense.
Late in the middle watch of a calm winter's night, many years ago, a square-rigged, three-masted ship, the Sarah Casket, was making her way slowly through northern seas under a blaze of stars. A bitte...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Wolves Chronicles ) - #6
'Ripley's Game' by Patricia Highsmith is the third installment in the Ripley series, showcasing a different side of the protagonist, Tom Ripley. In this book, Ripley is portrayed as a somewhat 'good' guy, involved in helping to eliminate members of the mafia and assisting his new friend Jonathan. The storyline focuses less on Ripley's personal life and more on the intricacies of the criminal activities he engages in, creating a sense of moral ambiguity and psychological tension. The writing style delves into the darker aspects of Ripley's character, making the reader question their feelings towards a sociopathic protagonist.
‘THERE’S no such thing as a perfect murder,’ Tom said to Reeves. ‘That’s just a parlour game, trying to dream one up. Of course you could say there are a lot of unsolved murders. That’s different.’ To...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Ripley ) - #7
Driving Force by Dick Francis is a gripping novel that delves into the world of horse racing and transportation while exploring themes of ambition, malice, and the driving forces that push individuals to succeed or seek revenge. The plot revolves around Freddie Croft, an ex-jockey turned businessman, who finds himself entangled in a web of mystery and danger when his drivers unwittingly become involved in a series of suspicious deaths. As Freddie navigates through the complexities of his business and the dark motives of those around him, readers are drawn into a suspenseful narrative that keeps them engaged until the satisfying conclusion. Francis' writing style brings the characters to life, providing a realistic and immersive experience for the reader.
- #8
Silent Revenge by Laura Landon is a historical romance novel with elements of drama and thriller. The story follows Lady Jessica Stanton, a deaf woman, and Simon Westland, Earl of Northcote, as they navigate a marriage of convenience to protect Jessica from her evil stepbrother. Their relationship evolves as they face challenges, including past betrayals, attempted murder, and revenge plots. The writing style is easy to read, with well-developed characters and authentic dialogue, although some readers found the language and social interactions to be at odds with the historical setting.
Jessica Stanton sat alone against the far wall of the ornate ballroom and watched her host and hostess, the Duke and Duchess of Stratmore, greet another guest. As usual, few even noticed she was there... - #9
'A Rage in Harlem' by Chester Himes is a dark and hard-boiled crime novel set in 1950s Harlem, focusing on a naive man named Jackson who falls for a scam and gets involved in a world of gangsterism, fraud, and violence. The story follows Jackson's misadventures as he tries to recover his lost money and his girlfriend, Imabelle, with the help of his twin brother Goldy, all while being pursued by the hard-nosed Harlem detectives Coffin Ed and Grave Digger. The book is described as a blend of dark noir elements with humor, vivid characters, and a sense of place that brings the gritty atmosphere of Harlem to life.
Chester Himes' 'A Rage in Harlem' is praised for its excellent writing, darkly humorous tone, and engaging storytelling that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The book is commended for its well-developed characters, unique setting, and the seamless combination of comedy and searing violence. The narration by Samuel L. Jackson is highlighted as enhancing the reading experience, bringing the story and characters to life in a way that captivates the audience.
Jackson was a short, black, fat man with purple-red gums and pearly white teeth made for laughing, but Jackson wasn’t laughing. It was too serious for Jackson to be laughing. Jackson was only twenty-e... - #10
'Bad' in the series 'Bad. Dirty. Power. Book' by L.P. Lovell, Stevie J. Cole is a dark romance novel that delves into the brutal world of power play, violence, and manipulation between the characters Ronan and Camilla. Ronan, a cold and calculating Russian with a God complex, sets out to gain complete power through ruthless tactics and strategic moves, including taking over the world through a worldwide game of chess. Camilla, initially portrayed as a maternal and caring figure, is revealed to be a ruthless and defiant character who matches Ronan in her brutality and love for carnage. The plot unfolds with a kidnapping, power struggles, and a battle of wills between two equally vicious and calculating individuals.
The writing style of the book is described as virtual poetry, taking the gruesome story to an almost beautiful verse. The narrative is gripping and filled with explosions and fireworks, keeping the readers on edge with unpredictable twists and turns. The authors masterfully create a dark and morbid world with seedy characters that linger in the minds of readers long after finishing the book, reminiscent of their previous work in the 'Wrong' series.
The celloist in the corner of the ballroom plays a drab tune. Women in lavish gowns flit around the room while the men in tuxedos watch their every move. To be honest, I hate the formalities of politi...