Books Like...

'A Man With One of Those Faces' by Caimh McDonnell is the first installment in 'The Dublin Trilogy' series. The plot revolves around a comedic crime mystery set in Dublin, Ireland, featuring quirky characters and a zany storyline. Readers appreciate the humorous writing style and engaging plot that keeps them hooked from the first page to the last. The series is described as a blend of comedy and crime, with dark humor and compelling mystery elements that make it a thoroughly enjoyable read.

The Sacred Art of Stealing by Christopher Brookmyre is a crime novel that revolves around DI de Xavier, a police officer involved in an unusual bank robbery. The book is described as a captivating and surprisingly believable story, with an ingeniously complicated plot that keeps the readers rooting for characters who might be considered as 'baddies'. The writing style is wry, darkly funny, and brilliantly evokes the local scenery of Glasgow, where the story is set.

'Quite Ugly One Morning' by Christopher Brookmyre is a murder mystery set in Edinburgh, following the investigation led by journalist Jack Parlabane. The book is praised for its unique narrative style, blending elements of thriller, mystery, satire, and humor. The story unfolds in a different direction from traditional whodunits, featuring a dark and witty tone with references to local culture and language. Readers are introduced to a cast of engaging and well-developed characters, including the sharp-witted Parlabane and the dry-humored Dr. Sarah Slaughter, as they navigate through a plot filled with deception, betrayal, and gory violence.

The book delves into the shady world of the National Health Service, exposing corruption and corporate greed while maintaining a sense of dark humor and clever storytelling. Brookmyre's writing style is noted for its seamless merging of mayhem and smart-ass characters, creating a fast-paced and entertaining narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The protagonist, Jack Parlabane, is portrayed as a tenacious and clever investigator, using unorthodox methods to uncover the truth behind a series of gruesome events, ultimately leading to a satisfying conclusion filled with twists and comic interludes.

"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.

'Slow Horses' by Mick Herron is the first installment in the 'Slough House' series, introducing readers to a group of MI5 misfits banished to Slough House after falling out of favor with the main office. Led by the unconventional and sharp-witted boss Jackson Lamb, the slow horses find themselves entangled in a complex case involving British Nazis, corruption within British intelligence services, and a high-stakes rescue mission. As the story unfolds, the characters' intricate backgrounds, dark humor, and unexpected twists keep readers engaged, offering a fresh and character-driven take on the British spy genre.

The plot of 'Slow Horses' revolves around the slow horses at Slough House, former MI5 agents relegated to mundane tasks and hoping for a chance at redemption. When a young Pakistani man is kidnapped by right-wing extremists, the slow horses, under Jackson Lamb's leadership, must navigate through internal politics, betrayal, and a race against time to save the hostage. The narrative unfolds with a mix of dark humor, compelling character development, and intricate plot twists, setting the stage for a gripping and entertaining spy thriller.

In "Dog on It," Spencer Quinn introduces readers to a humorous cozy mystery series narrated by Chet, the canine companion of private investigator Bernie Little. Together, Chet and Bernie embark on a journey to solve mysteries, including cases involving missing teenagers and Russian mob involvement. The story is told from Chet's unique perspective, providing a fresh and entertaining take on detective work with plenty of dog-centric humor and insights into the canine world.

The book captures the essence of Chet's personality as a lovable, sometimes forgetful, but always loyal dog. Through Chet's narration, readers are treated to a light and fun read that combines elements of mystery, humor, and adventure. Quinn's writing style effectively portrays Chet's dog-like behaviors and thought processes, making the story engaging and enjoyable for dog lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike.

'Cocaine Blues' by Kerry Greenwood introduces readers to the independent and adventurous Phryne Fisher, a wealthy and modern female detective set in 1920s Melbourne. Phryne takes on various cases, from investigating a mysterious illness to delving into the issues of illegal abortions and drug smuggling. The plot is intertwined with social commentary on feminism, communism, and socialism, making it an engaging read that not only focuses on mysteries but also on the societal issues of the times. is praised for its detailed descriptions of the era, strong character development, and the introduction of a cast of interesting and diverse characters that accompany Phryne in her investigations.

Dial A for Aunties is a comedic novel that follows Meddy Chan, a wedding photographer for her family's business, who accidentally kills her blind date and enlists the help of her mother and aunts to cover it up while dealing with the chaos of putting on a lavish wedding. The story is a mix of dark comedy, romance, and family dynamics, with a touch of cultural insight into Chinese and Indonesian traditions. The plot is fast-paced, filled with mishaps, bickering aunties, and a hint of romance as Meddy navigates through the aftermath of the accidental murder.

The writing style of Dial A for Aunties is described as hilarious, outrageous, and engaging. The author, Jesse Q. Sutanto, brings the characters to life with vivid personalities and humor, making the reader feel immersed in the chaotic yet heartwarming world of Meddy and her eccentric family. The book blends elements of slapstick comedy, romance, and mystery, creating a light-hearted and entertaining read that keeps the audience engaged until the end.

'The Spellman Files' by Lisa Lutz follows the quirky Spellman family who run a private investigation business. The story is narrated by Isabel Spellman, a witty and sarcastic young PI who struggles with the dynamics of her eccentric family. The plot revolves around family secrets, humorous investigations, and the balance between personal and professional life. The writing style is described as clever, funny, and engaging, with a mix of sarcasm and quirkiness that makes the read delightful and entertaining.

The book offers a unique take on the mystery genre, blending humor and serious situations seamlessly. The characters are well-developed, especially Isabel Spellman, who is portrayed as a relatable and likable protagonist. The novel balances comedy with intriguing plotlines, creating a light and amusing read that keeps the readers engaged. Overall, 'The Spellman Files' presents a fresh and edgy narrative with a focus on family dynamics and the unconventional world of private investigation.

'One for the Money' by Janet Evanovich is the first book in the Stephanie Plum series, introducing readers to the hilarious and endearing protagonist, Stephanie Plum. The story follows Stephanie as she embarks on a new career as a bounty hunter, taking on her first assignment to apprehend Joe Morelli, an ex-fling with a complicated history. The book is known for its entertaining mix of mystery, humor, and fast-paced storytelling, with witty dialogue and quirky characters that keep readers engaged from start to finish.

Evanovich's writing style in 'One for the Money' is described as funny, light-hearted, and fast-paced, making it a perfect choice for readers looking for a fun and easy read. The book is praised for its blend of suspenseful elements with comedic moments, creating a delightful mix of humor and intrigue as Stephanie navigates the world of bounty hunting in Trenton, New Jersey.