Books Like...
Search the Seven Hills by Barbara Hambly is a historical mystery novel set in ancient Rome, revolving around a young philosopher's search for his kidnapped lover, who is the daughter of a Roman official. The plot delves into the treacherous world of imperial Rome, where the prime suspects are the notorious religious group known as Christians. The story unfolds with intricate pacing, unveiling a city's underbelly while showcasing well-developed characters and a vivid portrayal of the Eternal City.
If you liked Search the Seven Hills, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:The Fabulous Clipjoint by Fredric Brown is a classic noir mystery set in post-war Chicago, following the investigation into the murder of Ed Hunter's father. Ed, along with his 'carnie' uncle Ambrose, sets out to solve the mystery of his father's death, uncovering dark secrets and navigating the gritty underworld of Chicago. The book is a blend of crime thriller and coming-of-age story, as Ed matures into an adult while seeking justice for his father's murder. Brown's writing style is described as atmospheric and evocative, transporting readers to a bygone era of carnies, gangsters, smokey bars, and jazz music.
The Central Mutual turned out to be a moderate−sized branch office of a company whose headquarters were in St. Louis. It was a break for us; the smaller the office the more likely they were to remembe... - #2
Save:The Roman Hat Mystery by Ellery Queen is the debut novel in the series, featuring the detective Ellery Queen and his father, Inspector Queen. The story revolves around the murder of a sleazy lawyer, Monte Field, during a Broadway show at the Roman Theater. The setting in the 1920s, the missing top hat of the victim, and the intricate plot involving various suspects from the theater's audience and cast create a classic mystery atmosphere. The book is known for its fair play approach, providing readers with all the clues needed to solve the murder before the big reveal, along with Ellery Queen's signature Challenge to the Reader.
The writing style of The Roman Hat Mystery is described as reflective of its time, with elements that may be considered dated by modern standards, such as racial references and character portrayals. The authors, Dannay and Lee, were still honing their craft when they wrote this novel, evident in the detailed list of characters, theater map, and the Challenge to the Reader included in the foreword. Despite some criticisms of the plot's memorability and character development, the book offers an engaging mystery that showcases Ellery Queen's logical deduction skills and sets the stage for the series to come.
DJUNA HAD just cleared the table of the dinner dishes and was serving coffee to the two Queens at six-thirty that evening when the outer doorbell rang. The little man-of-all-work straightened his tie,... - #3
Save:'Murder At The ABA' by Isaac Asimov is a murder mystery novel set at a bookseller's convention in 1975. The story follows author Darius Just as he investigates the death of his former protege, Giles Devore, believed to be a murder rather than an accident. Asimov himself is a character in the book, providing comic relief and taking potshots at the protagonist, adding a surreal element to the narrative. The plot unfolds over four days of the convention, with Just retracing Devore's final hours to uncover a motive and identify the murderer. The writing style is described as humorous, light-hearted, and engaging, with footnotes adding to the fun and entertainment of the story.
In the particular case in which I was involved, however, we can limit the direct causes to a specific, limited series of events, all of which had to have happened for violent death to have its chance.... - #4
Save:"Parker Pyne Investigates" is a collection of short stories featuring the retired ex-government employee Parker Pyne, who uses his knowledge of statistics to aid him in solving various problems to make people happy. The stories range from Pyne creating elaborate adventures for his clients to solving mysteries while on vacation in the Middle East. introduces readers to a different kind of detective who focuses more on fixing lives rather than traditional crime-solving, with a twist in each tale to keep the stories enjoyable.
As has been said, Mrs. Packington was nervous, but somehow or other, the mere sight of Mr. Parker Pyne brought a feeling of reassurance. He was large, not to say fat; he had a bald head of noble propo... - #5
Save:In the book "In the Heat of the Night" by John Dudley Ball, readers are taken back to a period when racial tensions were high, particularly in the Southern parts of the United States. The story follows the character Virgil Tibbs, a black homicide investigator from California, who finds himself in a small Carolina town called Wells, where he becomes involved in solving a murder case. The plot revolves around the murder of Maestro Enrico Mantoli, which disrupts the town's plans for an orchestral music festival. The book delves into themes of racism, prejudice, and societal attitudes towards race during the 1960s, as Tibbs navigates through a town where his skin color immediately makes him a suspect.
The writing style of John Dudley Ball is praised for its ability to handle the sensitive topic of race relations with intelligence and depth. The book is recognized for its social commentary on the unjust practices of racism in the American South during the Civil Rights movement. Ball's portrayal of the characters, especially Virgil Tibbs, the sheriff, and the deputy, is commended for its development and the exploration of their attitudes towards race, showcasing a shift in perspective by the end of the novel.
At ten minutes to three in the morning, the city of Wells lay inert, hot and stagnant. Most of its eleven thousand people tossed restlessly; the few who couldn’t sleep at all damned the fact that ther... - #6
Save:'And on the Eighth Day' is a unique and intriguing novel in the Ellery Queen Detective series that delves into a puzzling mystery set in a hidden community in the Southwest. The plot revolves around Ellery Queen's involvement with a group of highly peaceful and religious hermits, leading to a far greater puzzle than just a murderous mystery to be solved. The writing style of the book is non-formulaic, insightful, and dynamic, presenting a storyline that is different from the typical period mystery associated with Ellery Queen.
SOMEWHERE SAGEBRUSH WAS BURNING, but on neither side of the road could Ellery see smoke. Once he thought he saw fire. It turned out to be an ocotillo shrub in flaming flower. Either the spring rains h...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Ellery Queen Detective ) - #7
Save:He's got the whole town in his hands.
The technical glitches in Hollister, California, began inconspicuously enough-errors in department store billing and production problems at local factories. But the episodes become more malicious when falsified
... - #8
Save:Set in 1830's New Orleans, "A Free Man of Color" follows the story of Benjamin January, a free man of color who returns to his hometown after years in Paris. The book delves into the intricate social hierarchy and racial tensions of the time, painting a vivid picture of the city's atmosphere and customs. Benjamin, a musician and surgeon, becomes embroiled in a murder mystery at a quadroon ball, where he is a suspect due to his proximity to the victim. As he navigates through the complexities of New Orleans society, Benjamin must unravel the mystery to clear his name and avoid being wrongfully accused.
The writing style of Barbara Hambly is praised for its rich and detailed descriptions of 19th-century New Orleans, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and smells of the era. The book is commended for its engaging plot, intriguing characters, and the historical accuracy in depicting the social castes and interactions of the time period.
Had Cardinal Richelieu not assaulted the Mohican Princess, thrusting her up against the brick wall of the carriageway and forcing her mouth with his kisses, Benjamin January probably wouldn’t have not... - #9
Save:Those Who Hunt the Night by Barbara Hambly is a historical fantasy novel set in Edwardian London, where a retired British spy, James Asher, is blackmailed by a vampire to investigate a series of vampire murders plaguing the city. Asher, along with his wife, must navigate through the dangerous world of vampires and uncover the mystery behind the killings, leading to a thrilling and suspenseful tale of betrayal, loyalty, and supernatural intrigue. The writing style is described as atmospheric, filled with vivid descriptions of the setting, well-developed characters, and a perfect blend of mystery and horror elements that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
He stopped dead in the darkened front hall, listening. No sound came down the shadowy curve of the stairs from above. No plump Ellen hurried through the baize-covered door at the back of the hall to t... - #10
Save:'Sweet Silver Blues' in the 'Garrett P.I.' series by Glen Cook is a fantasy noir novel featuring a hard-boiled Private Eye named Garrett who is hired to investigate the disappearance of an old war buddy's heiress. Set in a world filled with gnomes, elves, dwarves, vampires, and unicorns, the story unfolds as Garrett delves into a complex mystery involving a hidden horde of silver, a missing heiress, and dangerous adversaries. The writing style is described as straightforward and matter-of-fact, with elements of humor to lighten the mood as the investigation uncovers more than just a simple missing persons case.
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