Books Like...

"The Burning" by Jane Casey follows Detective Constable Maeve Kerrigan as she investigates a series of brutal murders in London. The story delves into the complexities of the case, with Kerrigan facing challenges within the male-dominated police force and navigating personal relationships. The narrative alternates between Kerrigan's perspective and that of the victims' friends, providing a well-developed plot with compelling twists and turns. Casey's writing style captures the tension and suspense of the investigation, drawing readers into a psychological thriller that keeps them guessing until the end.

Readers found 'The Missing Ones' to be a gripping thriller with a twisted ending that kept them guessing. The book features a compelling plot with well-drawn characters that evoke a range of emotions such as sadness, anger, and compassion. The writing style is described as descriptive yet engaging, with a well-paced narrative that includes flashbacks seamlessly woven into the story. Despite some minor issues like confusing character timelines and slow pacing at the start, readers were drawn in by the action-packed storyline and the complex lead detective, Lottie Parker.

When a popular graduate student goes missing from Cambridge University, the students, professors, and police in his small slice of the world get swept up in the investigation. The novel's story has several sections, each told from the viewpoint of one of the various characters. It is full of surprises and delicious details. The author, Emily Winslow, has a wonderful gift for description, which brings the reader right into the scene. The story builds in its narration of the events and has many exciting turns and unfoldments. It takes place in Cambridge, England, around students and faculty at the university. Recommended for Anglophiles and mystery buffs.

'Case Histories' by Kate Atkinson follows the story of private detective Jackson Brodie as he investigates three cold cases that are more intriguing than the infidelity case he is initially hired for. The novel weaves together separate mysteries, each with its own set of characters and events, eventually converging in unexpected ways. Atkinson's writing style is described as unconventional, with alternating points of view and a non-linear timeline that keeps the reader engaged and surprised. The book delves into the complexities of family relationships, unresolved past traumas, and the personal struggles of the protagonist, Jackson Brodie.

'Little Face' by Sophie Hannah follows the story of a new mother, Alice, who returns home from an outing to find her newborn baby has been replaced with another baby, leading to a complex investigation involving the police. The narrative alternates between Alice's perspective and that of Detective Simon Waterhouse, creating a psychological thriller that keeps readers guessing about the true events surrounding the baby swap and a murder that is uncovered during the investigation. The writing style involves alternating chapters that delve into the characters' personal lives, creating mounting tension and doubts about the motives and actions of each character.

Set in Belfast during the troubled early 1980s, "The Cold Cold Ground" follows Detective Sean Duffy, a Catholic sergeant in the predominantly Protestant RUC, as he investigates what seems to be a homosexual killing with potential deeper sectarian motives at play. The story is enriched by vivid descriptions of Northern Ireland's unrest and the challenges faced by the police force, along with witty dialogue and strongly drawn characters that provide an authentic portrayal of the times and places depicted.

The plot unfolds against the backdrop of hunger strikes, riots, and political tensions, with Duffy navigating through a complex murder investigation that leads him to the top of the IRA, unveiling dark secrets and challenging societal norms. The book captures the essence of Belfast in the 1980s, blending elements of mystery, historical events, and political intrigue to create a compelling narrative that immerses readers in the turbulent atmosphere of the era.

Archaeologist Ruth Galloway is drawn into a police investigation of a missing child when bones are found in the Norfolk salt marsh, leading her to work alongside Detective Chief Inspector Nelson. As they delve into the case, older mysteries resurface, complicating their lives and testing their trust in each other. The atmospheric setting of the salt marshes, the intertwined pasts of the characters, and the evolving dynamics between Ruth and Nelson create a gripping and suspenseful narrative that keeps readers engaged till the end.

Two young girls, Kylie and Bailey, go missing in a Pennsylvania town, leading their family to hire Alice Vega, a skilled private investigator known for finding missing children. Vega teams up with Max Caplan, a former cop turned PI, to track down leads and uncover the truth behind the disappearance. The story unfolds with twists and turns, showcasing the complex characters of Vega and Cap as they navigate through a chilling and dark tale of abduction and suspense.

'Garnethill' by Denise Mina follows the protagonist Maureen O'Donnell, a survivor of sexual abuse and a psychiatric patient, as she navigates through a murder mystery involving her lover's death. Maureen finds herself in danger as she uncovers shocking truths about her past and those close to her, all set against the gritty backdrop of Glasgow. The writing style is described as tense, disturbing, and very noir, delving deep into themes of mental illness, poverty, and domestic abuse while painting a vivid picture of the bleak Glasgow setting.

In the final installment of the Garnethill trilogy, "Resolution" follows Maureen O'Donnell as she navigates testifying against her boyfriend's murderer, uncovering a prostitution ring, and dealing with her abusive father's return to Glasgow. The book delves into Maureen's complex relationships, her struggles with alcoholism, and the gritty portrayal of Glasgow's underbelly. Denise Mina's writing is praised for its impeccable descriptions of time and place, creating a bleak yet compelling tale of life in Maureen O'Donnell's Glasgow.