Books matching: thrilling murders
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- #1
A witty, ingenious, and entertaining classic - a must for fans of Golden Age mysteries and anyone who enjoys clever twists on the detective genre.
In 'The Poisoned Chocolates Case' by Anthony Berkeley, a group of amateur detectives, known as the Crime Circle, gathers to solve a murder mystery involving a box of poisoned chocolates that resulted in a man's death. Each member presents their theory on the crime over consecutive nights, leading to a series of divergent conclusions and a metafictional exploration of detective novel crafting. The book offers a delightful blend of humor, intricate deductions, and clever characterizations typical of Golden Age mysteries, set in a British upper-class society of the 1920s.
Berkeley's writing style cleverly dissects the conventions of traditional detective fiction, offering multiple solutions to the same crime through the perspectives of different characters. The narrative unfolds in a light-hearted and engaging manner, showcasing the author's expertise in creating a complex yet accessible mystery plot that keeps readers entertained and guessing until the final reveal.
Through the haze of cigarette-smoke eager voices reached his ears from all directions, prattling joyfully upon this and that connected with murder, poisons and sudden death. For this was his own, his...1929•288 pages - #2
A clever, mind-bending mystery that flips the script on the genre with an unforgettable twist - just be ready for a focus on puzzles over personalities.
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....2011•363 pages - #3
A fast, addictive psychological thriller with an audacious twist - devour it for the jaw-dropping finale, but don't expect deep literary nuance. Great for suspense junkies seeking their next bingeable read!
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a psychological thriller that follows the story of Alicia Berenson, a renowned artist who is found with her dead husband, tied to a chair and shot multiple times in the face. Alicia never speaks again and is sent to a mental institution. Theo Faber, a forensic psychologist, takes a job at the facility to treat Alicia and unravel her secrets. The book is filled with twists and turns, red herrings, and a surprising conclusion, making it a gripping and engaging read.
The novel is centered around the relationship between Alicia, the silent patient, and Theo, the psychotherapist determined to make her speak. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia's case, the story unfolds through entries from Alicia's diary and Theo's own perspective. The plot weaves together themes of mental illness, trauma, and suspense, keeping the readers guessing until the unexpected twist at the end. The Silent Patient explores complex characters and intricate storytelling, making it a compelling and thought-provoking thriller.
They had been married for seven years. They were both artists—Alicia was a painter, and Gabriel was a well-known fashion photographer. He had a distinctive style, shooting semi-starved, semi-naked wom...2018•340 pages - #4
A witty, cleverly-plotted vintage mystery with memorable characters - perfect for classic whodunit fans willing to roll with a few old-fashioned quirks.
"Fer-de-Lance" by Rex Stout introduces readers to the eccentric detective Nero Wolfe and his smart sidekick Archie Goodwin in their first mystery together. Set in 1930s New York, the plot revolves around Wolfe being asked to find a missing Italian immigrant, which leads to the investigation of the murder of a college president on a golf course. The story is narrated through Archie's witty and wise-cracking perspective, highlighting the dynamic between the two characters as they solve the case with a touch of humor and clever deduction. The writing style captures the essence of the time period and sets the stage for a series of engaging mysteries with unique characters and intriguing plotlines.
There was no reason why I shouldn’t have been sent for the beer that day, for the last ends of the Fairmont National Bank case had been gathered in the week before and there was nothing for me to do b...1934•294 pages - #5
A groundbreaking, character-rich classic that deserves its reputation as the original English detective novel. Slightly long-winded by today's standards, but a witty, entertaining, and smart mystery for fans of Victorian fiction or anyone curious where their favorite whodunnits began.
'The Moonstone' by Wilkie Collins is an early English detective novel that revolves around the theft of a large diamond known as the Moonstone. The story unfolds through a series of narrations from different characters, each providing their perspective on the theft and recovery of the precious jewel. Set in a Victorian backdrop, the novel combines mystery, suspense, and humor, creating an engaging narrative that delves into the complexities of the characters and the investigation surrounding the stolen diamond.
The narrative structure of 'The Moonstone' is characterized by multiple narrators, each with a unique voice and perspective, contributing to the rich character development throughout the story. As the mystery of the Moonstone unfolds, readers are taken on a journey filled with twists and turns, culminating in a suspenseful and intriguing exploration of the human psyche and societal norms of the time.
Only yesterday, I opened my Robinson Crusoe at that place. Only this morning (May twenty-first, Eighteen hundred and fifty), came my lady’s nephew, Mr Franklin Blake, and held a short conversation wit...1868•538 pages - #6
Sexy gargoyles, heartfelt romance, and deadly mysteries collide - this is monster romance at its spiciest and most fun. A must for fans of steam and suspense!
'Bound' in the 'Monsters & Artifacts' series by Trish Heinrich is a gripping tale of detectives Stella, Isaac, and James tackling a gruesome homicide case intertwined with dark magic artifacts and saucy gargoyles in the city of Seattle. The plot is fast-paced, with a perfect blend of mystery, romance, and action, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The characters, particularly Stella, a Mundane with spunk and sass, Isaac, a half Gargoyle, and James, a Gargoyle from the Archive, navigate through emotional baggage, a complex case, and inner attractions, creating a captivating dynamic filled with tension and heat.
The writing style of Trish Heinrich in 'Bound' is commendable, seamlessly balancing elements of romance, mystery, and fantasy. The story unfolds with a mix of strong characters, a compelling plot, and magical elements that transport readers into a world where gargoyles are adorable and the mate bond is portrayed as the cutest thing ever. skillfully weaves together themes of love, friendship, and teamwork, all set against the backdrop of a thrilling murder mystery laced with dark magic and supernatural beings.
I didn't know Stella would be here, though it shouldn't have surprised me. Her father had started the Supernatural branch, she'd grown up here and swore she'd never leave. Hell, I'd kept tabs on her u...September 2022•309 pages
(Also, see 8 recommendations for the series Monsters & Artifacts ) - #7
Set in the 1930s, "Murder at the Dolphin Hotel" follows Kitty Underhay, a sensible and brave hotelier turned budding detective, as she navigates a thrilling murder mystery involving a missing jewel and missing people. Alongside ex-army captain Matthew Bryant, Kitty attempts to solve the murder and unravel the mystery of the missing treasure while running the hotel—a charming cozy mystery with engaging characters and an interesting, transporting setting. The story unfolds in a period setting filled with mystery, intrigue, charm, and elegance, set off the English coast, making it a delightful read for fans of historical British mysteries.
The book introduces readers to Kitty Underhay, raised by her grandmother at the Dolphin Hotel after her mother's mysterious disappearance. As her grandmother leaves for Scotland, Kitty is left to oversee the hotel amidst a dangerous time marked by threatening messages, a recovered dead body, and subsequent murders. With a mix of unique characters, engaging plotlines, and a touch of romance, this cozy mystery series promises a delightful blend of historical charm and intriguing mysteries.
Kitty Underhay was on reception duty at her grandmother’s hotel. Outside the revolving doors lay a fresh, sunlit afternoon. Inside the lobby there was the scent of beeswax and lavender with dust motes...December 2019•251 pages - #8
A clever, twisty legal thriller great for fans of suspense and courtroom drama, though its unreliable narrator and morally gray characters may divide readers.
'Line Of Vision' by David Ellis is a legal thriller that follows Marty Kalish, an investment banker who becomes entangled in a murder mystery involving his lover's abusive husband. The story is narrated in the first person by Marty, providing a unique perspective as he navigates the courtroom drama and twists surrounding the murder case. delves into themes of deception, manipulation, and the complexities of relationships, keeping the reader guessing about the true events that transpired.
The writing style of 'Line Of Vision' is characterized by non-linear storytelling, multiple timelines, and intricate plot twists that keep the reader engaged throughout the book. The author, David Ellis, showcases his legal expertise in crafting realistic courtroom scenes and legal intricacies, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. explores the blurred lines between truth and lies, raising questions about perception, identity, and the consequences of one's actions.
The winds on November 18 are unusually strong for this time of year, even by Midwestern standards, carrying mist and some stray leaves in the night air. It doesn’t make my journey up the three acres o...2001•448 pages A diabolically clever, reader-challenging Japanese mystery that will keep puzzle-lovers hooked - even if it sometimes prioritizes logic and plot over heart or pace.
'The Tokyo Zodiac Murders' by Soji Shimada is a classic Japanese honkaku subgenre murder mystery novel set in Tokyo, Japan. The plot revolves around the unsolved mystery of the Tokyo Zodiac Murders which occurred in 1936, where an artist plans to create a Frankenstein-like figure named Azoth using body parts from his female family members. The story follows amateur detective Kiyoshi Mitarai and his partner Kazumi Ishioka as they investigate the case forty years later, delving into astrological symbolism, alchemy, and intricate clues to solve the locked room mystery. The book is known for its fair play approach, where the author provides all the clues for readers to solve the mystery before the solution is revealed at the end of the book.
The writing style of 'The Tokyo Zodiac Murders' is described as detailed, analytical, and engaging, focusing on intricate plotting and clues. The narrative unfolds through dialogues between characters, challenging readers to solve the mystery alongside the detectives. The book offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese setting, complex characters, and a clever premise that keeps readers hooked with its diabolical plot and unexpected twists, making it a compelling read for fans of the crime and mystery genre.
I have been possessed by a devil, an evil spirit with thoughts of its own. It plays vicious tricks on me. I am in agony. Under the devil’s control, my body is a mere puppet. One night, a huge clam, as...2004•297 pages- #10
A gripping, gruesome, and impeccably researched Victorian thriller - equal parts history lesson and page-turning crime drama. Not for the faint of heart, but perfect for anyone who craves dark mysteries set in fog-shrouded London.
In Murder as a Fine Art by David Morrell, Thomas De Quincey finds himself as a major suspect in a series of brutal mass murders resembling those that shook London forty-three years ago. The killer seems to be following De Quincey's essay on murder, manipulating him due to his opium addiction. With the help of his daughter Emily and two Scotland Yard detectives, De Quincey delves into a thrilling murder mystery set in fogbound Victorian London, where secrets from the past resurface to haunt them.
The book is a historical mystery that intricately weaves together the lives of Thomas De Quincey, Victorian London, and the Ratcliffe Highway murders. As the characters navigate through the dark and threatening streets of London, a literary battle ensues between De Quincey and the brilliant murderer, creating a gripping narrative filled with vivid details and a rich cast of characters that bring the period to life.
Something more goes to the composition of a fine murder than two blockheads to kill and be killed, a knife, a purse, and a dark lane. Design, grouping, light and shade, poetry, and sentiment are indis...2013•403 pages










