Books matching: private detective investigation
100 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
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... - #2
'Aberystwyth Mon Amour' by Malcolm Pryce is a humorous and entertaining spoof of hard-boiled detective stories, set in a parallel universe where Wales is run by a mafia of Druids. The story follows private detective Louie Knight as he investigates the disappearance of a schoolboy in the mean streets of Aberystwyth, encountering strange characters, surreal events, and dark humor along the way. The book is written in a 'noir' style, blending PI investigations, dames, murder, and mayhem with witty and dark humor, creating a unique and engaging narrative that pays homage to the detective genre.
The novel is set in a fictional version of Aberystwyth that is both familiar and fantastical, filled with references to Welsh culture and landmarks. The plot unfolds rapidly, keeping readers engaged with a mix of humor, mystery, and clever storytelling. Pryce's writing style combines elements of Raymond Chandler and Dylan Thomas, creating a rich and fantastical mythology within the familiar setting of Aberystwyth, making the book a clever and enjoyable read for fans of detective fiction and Welsh culture alike.
THE THING I remember most about it was walking the entire length of the Prom that morning and not seeing a Druid. Normally when I made my stroll shortly before 9am I would see a few hanging around at ... - #3
Thirty-four years ago, Violet Sullivan disappeared, leaving behind her six-year-old daughter Daisy. Now, Daisy seeks closure and hires private detective Kinsey Millhone to uncover the truth. The novel delves into the past and present, intertwining Kinsey's investigation with flashbacks to the days leading up to Violet's disappearance. As Kinsey navigates through a small town filled with secrets, lies, and potential suspects, she unravels a complex web of relationships and motives, ultimately leading to a surprising resolution.
The narrative style of the book shifts between Kinsey's present-day investigation and flashbacks to the lives of various community members, providing insight into the events surrounding Violet's disappearance. Sue Grafton skillfully develops the characters and plot, keeping readers engaged with a mix of suspense, mystery, and intriguing storytelling that culminates in a final, almost fatal confrontation that brings all the hidden truths to light.
When Liza Mellincamp thinks about the last time she ever saw Violet Sullivan, what comes most vividly to mind is the color of Violet’s Japanese silk kimono, a shade of blue that Liza later learned was...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Kinsey Millhone ) - #4
'Jackaby' by William Ritter is a young adult historical fantasy set in 1890 that follows the adventures of Abigail Rook, a girl who seeks excitement and ends up as the assistant to the eccentric paranormal investigator Jackaby. The story is filled with folklore, mythology, religion, and the supernatural, reminiscent of a Sherlock Holmes-style detective novel. Despite being a fun and light read, the plot is straightforward, making it more suitable for young readers looking for an entertaining mystery with quirky characters and supernatural elements.
It was late January, and New England wore a fresh coat of snow as I stepped along the gangplank to the shore. The city of New Fiddleham glistened in the fading dusk, lamplight playing across the icy b... - #5
Apocalypse Baby by Virginie Despentes is a dark and moody novel that follows the story of private detectives The Hyena and Lucie as they investigate the disappearance of a teenage girl named Valentine. The book delves into themes of youth culture, social critique, and the complexities of various characters' personalities. The writing style is described as enjoyably noir, with a mix of first-person narrative and third-person perspectives that provide a deep exploration of the characters and their motivations.
NOT SO LONG AGO, I WAS STILL THIRTY. ANYTHING could happen. You just had to make the right choice at the right moment. I often changed jobs, my short-term contracts weren’t renewed, I had no time to g... - #6
'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... - #7
'The Verifiers' by Jane Pek is a refreshing mystery novel that combines elements of LGBTQ representation, technology, and family dynamics. The story follows Claudia, a smart and rebellious protagonist working at a verification company, who gets involved in solving a murder mystery while navigating the complexities of online dating and personal privacy. The book is praised for its originality, humor, and engaging writing style that blends mystery, emotion, and morality seamlessly.
Everyone else walks into Veracity wearing some residue of embarrassment. Their gazes skitter about, their sentences are potholed with ums and wells. They overexplain. They worry that we’ll judge them,... - #8
In "Q is for Quarry," private investigator Kinsey Millhone is enlisted by two retired detectives to help solve a cold case from 1969 involving the murder of an unidentified teenage girl found in a quarry. The story unfolds as Kinsey delves into the case, uncovering clues and navigating through small California desert towns, all while balancing personal relationships and family dynamics. The plot is based on a true cold case, adding an element of realism to the narrative. Readers appreciate the engaging mystery and the development of the characters, particularly the dynamics between Kinsey and the elderly detectives she is assisting.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Kinsey Millhone ) - #9
'Edwin of the Iron Shoes' in the 'Sharon McCone' series by Marcia Muller follows private eye Sharon McCone as she investigates the murder of an antique dealer in San Francisco. Sharon, working for a legal firm, teams up with Lt. Marcus of the SFPD to unravel a mystery that involves smuggling and a small boy mannequin named Edwin wearing iron shoes. The story is set in the 80s San Francisco, providing a nostalgic glimpse into the era while Sharon navigates through suspects and uncovers dark secrets hidden among the antique and art world.
I stood next to the car, waiting for the number ninety-three trolley to pass, its antennae zinging along the overhead cable. The lighted windows of the trolley were empty except for the driver and a l... - #10
'The Leavenworth Case' by Anna Katharine Green is a classic mystery novel published in 1878, set in a palatial Fifth Avenue mansion where wealthy Horatio Leavenworth is found shot dead in his library. The story follows the investigation led by detective Ebenezer Gryce and junior partner Everett Raymond, who must unravel the mystery surrounding the murder, focusing on Leavenworth's two nieces who are the prime suspects. The writing style of the book is described as melodramatic and rich in Victorian-era language, with a focus on intricate details and character development.
I HAD been a junior partner in the firm of Veeley, Carr & Raymond, attorneys and counsellors at law, for about a year, when one morning, in the temporary absence of both Mr. Veeley and Mr. Carr, there...