Books matching: police corruption theme
24 result(s)
- #1
Save:On the day of his release from prison, Max Holman learns that his son, a police officer, has been murdered along with three others. Determined to uncover the truth behind the killings, Holman teams up with former FBI agent Katherine Pollard, who arrested him in the past. As they delve into the mystery, they face obstacles from both the LAPD and a ruthless killer, leading to a gripping and suspenseful investigation filled with twists and turns. The writing style of the book is described as fast-paced, compelling, and engaging, keeping readers guessing and on the edge of their seats until the very end.
- #2
Save:"Murder on Astor Place" by Victoria Thompson is the first installment in the Gaslight Mystery series set in turn-of-the-century New York City. The story follows Sarah Brandt, a midwife who becomes involved in solving a murder case when a young girl from a prominent family is found dead in a boarding house. Teaming up with Detective Frank Malloy, Sarah navigates the societal divides, corruption in the police force, and class distinctions of the era to bring the killer to justice. The plot is engaging, the characters are well-developed, and the historical backdrop of New York City in the 1890s adds depth to the narrative.
AT FIRST SARAH THOUGHT THE TINKLING OF THE bell was part of her dream. It sounded so sweet and soothing, and she was following it across a sunlit meadow, as if it were a golden butterfly. But then the... - #3
Save:'The Black Mile' by Mark Dawson is a historical fiction novel set in 1940 London during the German Blitz. The story revolves around a series of horrific murders of young prostitutes known as the Blackout Ripper case. The narrative follows Detective Inspector Frank Murphy as he investigates the murders, while also dealing with personal issues such as his missing daughter. The book delves into police corruption, Freemasonry influence, and the challenges faced during wartime, all told through multiple perspectives and intertwined storylines.
- #4
Save:'Shrines of Gaiety' by Kate Atkinson is a historical fiction novel set in 1920s London, focusing on the underworld of swinging Soho and the nightclubs owned by the enigmatic Nellie Coker. The story follows a cast of characters including Nellie herself, Detective Frobisher, librarian Gwendolen, and a runaway girl named Freda. The book delves into themes of corruption, abduction, gang warfare, and the decadent lifestyle of London's elites during the post-World War I era. Atkinson's writing style is described as atmospheric, with great character development and based on a real-life female speakeasy owner.
The plot of 'Shrines of Gaiety' is rich in action and interesting characters, drawing readers into the illicit world of London nightclubs and the challenges faced by Nellie Coker and her family. The narrative weaves together multiple storylines, including police corruption, missing teenagers, and revenge, creating a tapestry of intrigue and suspense. While some readers found the plot to be somewhat lacking in tension and depth, others appreciated the detailed period setting and the diverse range of characters brought to life by Atkinson's storytelling.
- #5
Save:In "I Know You Know," the author Gilly Macmillan takes readers on a gripping journey back and forth in time, from 1996 to the present day, unraveling the mystery surrounding the brutal murders of two young boys, Charlie Paige and Scott Ashby. The narrative follows characters like John Fletcher, Jessica Paige, and Cody Swift, as they navigate through past secrets, hidden connections, and the lingering questions that resurface two decades after the crime. With a mix of podcasts, investigations, and a complex web of relationships, the book delves into themes of wrongful conviction, police corruption, and the haunting impact of childhood traumas.
The intricate plot of "I Know You Know" is complemented by fully developed characters, meticulous descriptions of the setting in Bristol, and a narrative structure that seamlessly weaves together flashbacks and present-day events. As the story unfolds, readers are kept on the edge of their seats, with unexpected twists and turns leading to a doozy of an ending that challenges perceptions and keeps the pages turning till the very end.
- #6
Save:'A Taste for Death' by P.D. James is a mystery novel that delves into the murder of Sir Paul Berowne, a Minister of the Crown, and a tramp named Harry Mack, found in a church vestry. The plot follows Detective Adam Dalgleish, along with DCI John Massingham and DI Kate Miskin, as they unravel the reasons behind the murder of a respected and wealthy man. The book explores themes of corruption, social change, and personal struggles, set against a backdrop of a London undergoing significant transformation.
The writing style of 'A Taste for Death' is characterized by detailed descriptions of characters, settings, and psychological depth. The author, P.D. James, weaves a complex narrative that not only focuses on the murder investigation but also delves into the inner thoughts, ambitions, and fears of the characters. The book offers a reflective look at society, relationships, and the impact of murder on privacy and personal lives.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Adam Dalgliesh ) - #7
Save:'Mrs. Sherlock Holmes' by Brad Ricca is a narrative nonfiction that delves into the true story of Grace Humiston, a female lawyer and detective, who took on the case of the missing girl Ruth Cruger in 1917. alternates between detailing the Ruth Cruger disappearance case and background on Humiston's journey from divorcee to lawyer to part-time detective. It explores themes of women's rights, immigration, and crime in early 20th-century New York, shedding light on the societal and cultural norms of the time. The writing style is journalistic, with detailed accounts of Humiston's investigative work and the cases she took on, providing a fascinating insight into the life of this remarkable woman.
The room smelled of damp cement, wood, and oil. Two other men followed him in. One was enormous. The other was short and wore overalls. That one looked at everything with keen, moving eyes. He was loo... - #8
Save:'Trouble Is My Business' by Raymond Chandler is a collection of four short stories featuring the iconic private detective, Phillip Marlowe. The book is described as a classic Noir detective story written by one of the masters, with fast-paced plots that keep readers constantly engaged. The stories are set in a gritty, noir world where Marlowe is portrayed as a hard luck detective who uses his wits to navigate through various mysteries and challenges. Chandler's writing style is highlighted for its brilliance, with compelling comparisons and vivid descriptions that bring the characters and settings to life.
The book captures the essence of the hard boiled noir detective genre and is praised for its unique and snappy dialogue, as well as its ability to transport readers back in time to an era of crime and intrigue. Chandler's storytelling is commended for its entertainment value, with each story providing a brief escape into a world of suspense, mystery, and clever detective work.
Some literary antiquarian of a rather special type may one day think it worth while to run through the files of the pulp detective magazines which flourished during the late twenties and early thirtie... - #9
Save:'Nineteen Seventy Four' by David Peace is the first in the Red Riding Hood Quartet, set in northern England in 1974. It follows the story of journalist Ed Dunford as he investigates the brutal torture and murder of a young girl, leading him into a web of police corruption and brutality. The plot is described as suspenseful, filled with action and tension, creating a bleak society filled with unspeakable crimes. The writing style is noted for being raw, gripping, and dark, vividly portraying the corrupt world of Yorkshire in the 1970s.
The whole bloody pack sat waiting for the main attraction, pens poised and tapes paused; hot TV lights and cigarette smoke lighting up the windowless room like a Town Hall boxing ring on a Late Night ... - #10
Save:A thrilling novel that weaves its way through plot lines, characters, events, and discovery. The story revolves around the 50's red scare and a number of murders in LA, told from three different police officers' points of view. It delves into the dark side of 1950s Los Angeles, exploring themes of police corruption, serial murder, Communist witch hunts, and the underworld of homosexual prostitution.
Thundershowers hit just before midnight, drowning out the horn honks and noisemaker blare that usually signalled New Year’s on the Strip, bringing 1950 to the West Hollywood Substation in a wave of h...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series L.A. Quartet )
