Books Like...
Hidden Fires is a gripping Sherlock Holmes adventure set in the late 1800s, portraying a young Holmes before meeting Watson. The book is filled with intricate details that transport readers into the heart of London, making them feel like part of the plot alongside the well-written characters. The narrative style is captivating, with a nice blend of origin stories that stay true to the essence of Sherlock Holmes storytelling.
If you liked Hidden Fires, here are the top 33 books to read next:
- #1Sherlock Holmes and The Eye of Hekaby:Book 3 in the series:Stories from the Notebooks of Dr. John H. Watson
January 1888: Dr. John H. Watson has returned to 221b Baker Street, just weeks after a personal tragedy has left him bereaved and bereft. Feeling like a broken man, his plans and dreams lying in ruin, he slowly tries to make his way forward, with the
... - #2
'I Don't Forgive You' by Aggie Blum Thompson is a domestic suspense novel that follows the life of Allie, a young mother who is determined to create a good life for her family despite her troubled past. However, when she gets attacked and a murder occurs, her world is turned upside down, and she finds herself caught in a web of mystery and danger. The plot keeps readers guessing until the very end, with unexpected twists and intense moments that make it a gripping page-turner. The author skillfully addresses themes of life choices, blame, revenge, trust, and self-acceptance, creating a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.
The writing style of Aggie Blum Thompson is described as engaging, well-written, and organized, with a talent for creating a realistic suburban setting filled with neighborhood intrigues and complex characters. delves into the challenges of building friendships in a tight-knit community, exploring questions of identity, forgiveness, and the impact of past experiences on present circumstances. Overall, 'I Don't Forgive You' offers a compelling narrative that combines suspense, drama, and emotional depth to keep readers hooked from beginning to end.
- #3
This is the 4th story from The Art of Sherlock Holmes project and first appeared in The MX Book of New Sherlock Holmes Stories, Part V. The artist is Terre Rybovich creating the art from the story. The original painting measures 39cm x 30cm and is ch
... - #4
'The Girl in a Swing' by Richard Adams is a haunting and mysterious novel that follows the story of Alan Desland, an English ceramics dealer, who meets a beautiful and enigmatic woman named Kathe in Copenhagen. Their whirlwind romance leads to marriage, but as the story unfolds, strange and supernatural events begin to occur, hinting at a darker truth behind Kathe's facade. The plot is described as far-fetched and eerie, with elements of fantasy, love, and horror woven into the narrative. The writing style is lyrical and evocative, drawing readers into a world where reality blurs with the supernatural, leaving them questioning the boundaries between dreams and nightmares.
ALL day it has been windy - strange weather for late July the wind swirling through the hedges like an invisible flood tide among seaweed; tugging, compelling them in its own direction, dragging them ... - #5
Gentlemen and Players by Joanne M. Harris is a dark and sinister thriller set in a prestigious all boys boarding school, St. Oswald's. The story revolves around a clever psychopath seeking revenge on the school, creating a complex psychological mystery that keeps the reader hooked until the unpredictable ending. The narrative is told from multiple perspectives, including that of Roy Straitley, an elderly Classics master, and the mysterious assailant, adding depth to the plot and character development.
The book delves into themes of revenge, deception, loyalty, and identity within the backdrop of a British public school. With a well-crafted plot, unexpected twists, and engaging character interactions, Gentlemen and Players offers a gripping and suspenseful read that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
If there's one thing I've learned in the past fifteen years, it's this: that murder is really no big deal. It's just a boundary, meaningless and arbitrary as all others - a line drawn in the dirt. Lik... - #6
"Death in Bloodhound Red" by Virginia Lanier is the first book in the series featuring Jo Beth Sidden, a tough and ardent feminist who raises and trains bloodhounds for tracking in Georgia. The book is described as a great mystery that is different from most, with vivid descriptions that transport the reader to the Deep South, especially during perilous treks through the Okefenokee Swamp. The bloodhounds in the story are not just background props but are central characters, showcasing their lore, history, training, and affectionate disposition.
Jo Beth Sidden is portrayed as a strong, intelligent, and flawed woman who is deeply connected to her dogs. The book also delves into the complexities of her life, including her mysterious childhood spent in dire poverty and her deceased father who was a famous artist. Readers are drawn into the suspenseful and atmospheric mystery that is intricately plotted, making it a captivating read for fans of authors like Sue Grafton, Margaret Maron, and Nevada Barr.
- #7
The Cellar by Minette Walters is a novella that explores the psychological impact of cruelty through a dark and compelling story. The plot revolves around Mina, an abused child who gains control of a household after the youngest son goes missing. The book delves into themes of power, evil, and revenge, with well-developed characters and a gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged. Walters' writing style is described as brisk, articulate, and attention to detail, creating a taut and edge-of-your-seat suspenseful atmosphere throughout the story.
- #8
'Plot Twist' by Jane Rubino is the fourth book in the 'Cat Austen Mysteries' series, where Cat Austen, the technical advisor for a movie based on the events from the previous book 'Death of a DJ', gets entangled in a deadly mystery once again. The story is described as well-written, dialogue-driven, and fast-paced, keeping readers engaged until the very last word. The plot twists and surprises, especially the unexpected ending, leave readers stunned and emotionally invested in the narrative.
The book delves into themes of reality versus illusion, entertainment industry dynamics, and the complexities of human nature. Readers praise Jane Rubino's storytelling for its witty and fun elements, intricate plotline, and vibrant characters. The blend of mystery, satire, and family drama adds depth to the narrative, making it an entertaining and engaging read that keeps readers guessing and thoroughly entertained.
(Also, see 18 recommendations for the series Cat Austen Mysteries ) - #9
'Primal Fear' by William Diehl follows Martin Vail defending Aaron Stampler, a young man accused of murdering Archbishop Rushman. The story is described as a well-crafted legal thriller that delves into human nature and motivation, with a focus on the courtroom drama surrounding the case. The writing style is characterized as tightly written, with a logical progression of revelations about the characters and the murder, leading to a thoughtfully created narrative that unfolds naturally. The plot introduces the concept of Multiple Personality Disorder, adding a compelling twist to the story and creating an unsettling and thought-provoking atmosphere.
When Archbishop Richard Rushman, known to Catholic, Protestant and Jew alike as “the Saint of Lakeview Drive” because of his great charitable works, stepped out of the shower, he had less than ten min... - #10
"Force of Nature" by Jane Harper revolves around a group of five women from a company who go on a corporate retreat in the Australian wilderness. However, only four women return, and the missing woman, Alice Russell, was assisting Federal Police Agent Aaron Falk with investigating financial irregularities within the company. As Falk and his partner Carmen delve into the disappearance, they uncover a web of personal and professional relationships among the hikers, leading to suspicions and betrayals. The story alternates between the present investigation and flashbacks to reveal the dynamics among the women and the events that transpired during the retreat. Despite being a mystery thriller, some readers found the book lacking in atmospheric tension and character development compared to the author's previous work.
Some things would always linger, though. Falk had been barely a teenager when the Giralang Ranges had dominated the evening news for the first time. Then three more times over the next two years. Each...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Aaron Falk )