Books Like...
Detective John Corey, recovering from gunshot wounds, is pulled into a murder investigation involving two biochemists from Plum Island. As Corey delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers secrets about biological weapons, buried pirate treasure, and a thrilling speedboat chase during a hurricane. The book is a fast-paced thriller set on the North Fork of Long Island, filled with dead bodies, murder mystery, treasure hunting, and witty dialogue from the sarcastic main character.
If you liked Plum Island, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:John Sutter, a Long Island attorney, finds his life turned upside down after a chance encounter with Frank Bellarosa, a Mafia Don. The clash of cultures among the uber rich on Long Island's Gold Coast sets the stage for a high-octane soap opera involving infidelity, the Mafia, and a fading American aristocracy. The story unfolds with witty and sarcastic humor, intricate relationships, and a dramatic exploration of the underworld that Sutter becomes entangled in, leading to a compelling narrative filled with twists and turns.
I first met Frank Bellarosa on a sunny Saturday in April at Hicks’ Nursery, an establishment that has catered to the local gentry for over a hundred years. We were both wheeling red wagons filled with... - #2
Save:"Dark of the Moon" by John Sandford follows the character Virgil Flowers, a member of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, as he investigates a series of murders in a small town. The plot unfolds with multiple murders occurring in quick succession, all seemingly connected, leading Virgil to delve into the town's secrets and unravel the mystery. The writing style is described as fast-paced, action-packed, and featuring well-developed characters, particularly Virgil Flowers, who is portrayed as a likable, smart, and thorough investigator.
SIX GARBAGE BAGS full of red cedar shavings, purchased two at a time for a dollar a bag, at midnight, at the self-serve shed at Dunstead & Daughter Custom Furniture, serving your fine cabinetry needs ... - #3
Save:Set during the Cold War era, 'The Charm School' by Nelson DeMille follows the story of American CIA agents pitted against the Soviet Union's KGB in a high-stakes battle. The novel revolves around a secret school in Russia where American POWs are held captive and forced to train KGB agents to pass as Americans. The main characters, Col. Hollis and Lisa Rhodes, stumble upon this covert operation and find themselves entangled in a web of espionage and intrigue. Through detailed descriptions of Russia and its political landscape, DeMille paints a vivid picture of the tensions between the two superpowers during this period.
DeMille weaves a gripping narrative filled with suspense, tension, and unexpected twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The book offers a unique blend of Cold War espionage, romance, and political intrigue, providing readers with a thrilling and immersive reading experience. Despite some criticisms regarding the character development and pacing, 'The Charm School' is praised for its engaging storytelling, well-researched background, and the author's ability to capture the essence of the era.
Fisher had become impatient with these internal control measures. He felt as if he were making a major border crossing at each town in which he was obliged to stop. He said, "Ex-college student, curre... - #4
Save:'A Clean Kill in Tokyo' follows the life of John Rain, a complex character who is a skilled assassin with a troubled past. Set in the intriguing backdrop of Japan, the story delves into Rain's personal struggles, his meticulous techniques to avoid detection, and the intricate web of relationships he navigates. The plot unfolds with twists and turns, involving corrupt politics, a dangerous romance, and a mission that puts Rain in the crosshairs of various adversaries. Barry Eisler's writing style vividly portrays the essence of Tokyo, incorporating detailed descriptions of the city's environment, culture, and customs, while keeping the narrative engaging and suspenseful.
- #5
Save:'The Drifter' by Nicholas Petrie follows the story of Peter Ash, a Marine veteran suffering from PTSD who returns home to help the widow of his former Sergeant. As Peter uncovers a terrorist plot while doing repairs on the widow's house, he finds himself entangled in a dangerous situation involving a large sum of money, a mangy dog, and explosives. The book is praised for its well-written plot full of twists and turns, engaging characters, and a climactic ending that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The writing style of 'The Drifter' is noted for its fast pace, intricate plotline, and complex character development. Readers appreciate the depth of the characters, especially Peter Ash, and the way the author delves into the challenges faced by returning veterans. The book effectively combines elements of suspense, thriller, and noir genres, offering a gritty and emotional narrative that sheds light on the struggles of veterans and the impact of war on individuals.
The hundred-year-old house sat on a narrow lot on the edge of a battered Milwaukee neighborhood that, like the house, had seen better days. It was early November, not warm, not even by Wisconsin stand... - #6
Save:"Keeper" by Greg Rucka is the first in the Atticus Kodiak series, introducing the main character, a freelance bodyguard. The plot revolves around Kodiak protecting a doctor from anti-abortion extremists, showcasing a mix of action, suspense, and character analysis. The writing style is described as engaging, with a focus on moral ambiguities and complex personal lives of the characters.
Instead, I kept both hands on Alison’s shoulders, using my body as a shield to get us through the crowd. At six feet and over one hundred and ninety pounds, I’m big enough to be intimidating, even wea... - #7
Save:"Deal Breaker" by Harlan Coben introduces readers to Myron Bolitar, a sports agent with a unique background, who gets involved in solving mysteries and detective activities. Bolitar is accompanied by his eccentric sidekick Win, and together they navigate through intriguing plots involving missing persons, unsavory situations, and unexpected twists. The story unfolds with a mix of humor, suspense, and sarcasm, keeping readers engaged as they follow Myron's investigations and personal relationships. Coben's writing style blends wit and suspense, creating a captivating narrative that explores the dark side of the sports industry and the complexities of human relationships.
“Come on, Myron,” he urged with neoreligious fervor. “I’m sure we can come to an understanding here. You give a little. We give a little. The Titans are a team. In some larger sense I would like all o... - #8
Save:"Rules of Prey" by John Sandford follows the story of Lucas Davenport, a tough and unconventional police lieutenant, as he hunts down a psycho serial killer in the Twin Cities. The killer leaves behind notes with 'Rules' for other serial killers, creating a cat and mouse game with Davenport. The book is a gritty and action-packed police procedural that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, blending suspense with a complex character like Lucas Davenport who is both a brilliant detective and a womanizer.
The writing style of "Rules of Prey" is described as fast-paced, taunt, and engrossing, with a well-developed setting and a plot that keeps the tension high as Davenport races against time to catch the killer. The book introduces readers to a range of fascinating characters within the Minneapolis police department and sets the stage for a series filled with thrilling crime-solving adventures.
A rooftop billboard cast a flickering blue light through the studio windows. The light ricocheted off glass and stainless steel: an empty crystal bud vase rimed with dust, a pencil sharpener, a microw... - #9
Save:"Death of a Citizen" in the Matt Helm series by Donald Hamilton follows the story of Matt Helm, a retired wartime special operations secret service man who has settled down in Santa Fe, New Mexico, living a quiet life with his family. However, his past catches up with him when he is pulled back into the world of espionage due to a plot to kill a scientist at Los Alamos. The writing style is described as engaging, with a first-person narration that allows readers to experience the missions through Matt's eyes, keeping the suspense high as the true villains are revealed along with Helm's internal struggles.
I WAS taking a Martini across the room to my wife, who was still chatting with our host, Amos Darrel, the physicist, when the front door of the house opened and a man came in to join the party. He mea... - #10
Save:In "The Monkey's Raincoat," Elvis Cole, a wisecracking private investigator with a sense of humor and a love for Disney characters, is hired by Ellen Lang to find her missing husband and son. Along with his enigmatic partner Joe Pike, Cole delves into a case that leads them into a world of drugs, sex, and murder in the seamy side of Hollywood. The book is described as a fast-paced detective yarn with snappy dialogue, vivid descriptions of Los Angeles, and a complicated plot that keeps readers engaged.
“I’m sorry, Mr. Cole, this has nothing to do with you. Please excuse me.” Ellen Lang stood up out of the director’s chair across from my desk. I’d had it and its mate fitted in a nice pastel burgundy ...
