Robert B. Parker is a huge name in American mysteries and crime fiction, with one of his most popular series starring private investigator, Spenser. With attention to detail, a tough PI protagonist and a historical city backdrop, Parker’s latest Spenser novel, Cheap Shot, is an obvious hit.
But are you itching for more mysteries and dark urban settings? In need of more sleuthy protagonists outside of the police force?
Here’s a laundry list of some brain-picking mysteries you’ll enjoy.
The Case Book of Irene Adler by San Cassimally
San Cassimally’s novel gives an alternate perspective to the Sherlock Holmes universe, this time giving the starring role to a secondary character whose clandestine dealings can shock even the great detective himself. Just what is Holmes’ housekeeper up to, really? Readers will love witnessing Adler’s time in Club des As, a behind-the-scenes vigilante group. Cassimally revisits moments that will be familiar to Holmes fans, making Adler’s masquerade though the detective’s life satisfying and fun. And if you can’t get enough, it has a sequel, with another on the way!
Mardi Gras Madness by Ken Mask
Ah, Mardi Gras in New Orleans–a magical party chock-full of vice and hedonism. Ken Mask’s novel weaves an intriguing story as private investigator Luke Jacobs plunges into a corporate cover-up that threatens the freedom of a convicted friend. The mystery gets much of its charm by the setting, an amusement park of a city with its own seedy underbelly that persists should you know where to look. As with Mask’s other Jacobs mysteries, this novel has a distinct character and is a fun ride.
The Case Files of Roderick M
isely, Consultant by J.P. Rieger
This is another pick that follows a PI–but this time in the prototypical 1950’s small town. Here, we follow Misely’s adventures in tackling the small but tough crimes plaguing his community, told in Rieger’s humorous and inventive style. Featuring mysteries with every chapter, this book is episodic, creative and a wild ride.
High on suspense in an idyllic town, readers will delight in this lawyer wannabe’s quest for bringing criminals to justice.
Snakebite by Beryl Wealand
Snakebite follows Dr. Garnet Daniels, an unassuming doctor and professor at the local medical school. But things take a turn when her visiting niece becomes implicated in a drug investigation thanks to a love interest’s misdeeds. But when the football star finds himself in the hospital, Daniels discovers evidence that will lead her to work with the police in solving the puzzle. Daniels is a strong and smart protagonist, using her medical knowledge and raw intelligence to prove herself to the police in charge of the investigation–a must-read for mystery fans.