Richard Osman continues to top Staffordshire libraries' most borrowed books list for the fourth consecutive year, with crime and thriller genres dominating, while Julia Donaldson leads the children's list. The list highlights popular titles in adult and children's fiction, reflecting ongoing reader preferences and the importance of libraries in communities.
Marlon James, renowned for his novels, has created a new detective series for HBO titled "Get Millie Black," set in the gritty streets of Kingston, Jamaica. The show, inspired by James' mother, a Jamaican detective inspector, follows Millie Black as she navigates complex personal and professional challenges. Unlike typical detective shows, it delves into Jamaica's social issues, including homophobia and class disparities, while maintaining a compelling narrative. The series stands out for its rich character development and the fresh perspective it brings to the crime genre.
The Prime Video adaptation of James Patterson's 'Alex Cross' novels, starring Aldis Hodge, struggles with clunky writing and unsatisfying plot resolutions despite strong character work and cultural insights. Hodge's portrayal of Cross as a confident, intellectually sharp Black detective is compelling, but the series fails to effectively utilize its characters within a convoluted serial killer plot. The show also grapples with the portrayal of Black police officers' challenges, but ultimately doesn't deliver a satisfying narrative.
Don Winslow, renowned crime fiction author, is shifting his focus from writing to online political activism, particularly targeting Donald Trump. His latest book, "City in Ruins," concludes his Danny Ryan trilogy, drawing inspiration from ancient authors like Aeschylus. Winslow's viral videos criticizing Trump have garnered millions of views, and he plans to continue his campaign beyond November. Despite concerns about alienating readers, he remains committed to the cause, emphasizing the urgency of the current political climate.
The article highlights the 10 best mystery novels of 2023, featuring a mix of established authors and new voices. The selected titles include "The Benevolent Society of Ill-Mannered Ladies" by Alison Goodman, "Blood Sisters" by Vanessa Lillie, "The Body by the Sea" by Jean-Luc Bannalec, "Glory B" by Danielle Arceneaux, "Hollow Beasts" by Alisa Lynn Valdés, "The Last Devil To Die" by Richard Osman, "The Last Remains" by Elly Griffiths, "The Sunset Years of Agnes Sharp" by Leonie Swann, "Symphony of Secrets" by Brendan Slocumb, and "Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers" by Jesse Q. Sutanto. Each book offers a unique and captivating mystery, exploring various themes and settings.
Here are the 12 best thrillers of 2023, featuring a range of gripping stories including racial tension, serial killers, domestic drama, and espionage. From S.A. Cosby's "All the Sinners Bleed" to Ava Glass's "The Traitor," these novels offer suspenseful plots, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Donna Leon, author of the bestselling mystery series featuring Venetian detective Guido Brunetti, discusses her love for mystery books, her decision to write crime fiction, and her approach to crafting thoughtful and literate mysteries. She emphasizes her dislike for violence and sex in books and the importance of exploring ethical dimensions in her novels. Leon also reveals her plans to incorporate ecological concerns, particularly climate change, into future Brunetti books. In her memoir, "Wandering Through Life," she reflects on her unplanned journey as a writer and her deep appreciation for Italy and its culture. At 81, Leon contemplates aging and the importance of accepting it while striving to maintain good health.
In her novel "Bright Young Women," Jessica Knoll shifts the focus from a notorious serial killer to the women who died by his hand. The story follows Pamela, the only survivor who still carries the trauma of the attack, and her quest for justice alongside Tina, a widow seeking justice for another victim. Knoll skillfully alternates between their perspectives, highlighting the distinct and memorable characters. The novel explores societal horrors, simmering rage, and the struggle for women's voices to be heard. Knoll's storytelling ends with a cathartic scream, challenging the myth of the "murderer/genius" one cut at a time.
Anne Perry, the prolific author of historical crime fiction, has died at the age of 84. Perry, who sold over 26 million copies of her books, was also known for her own dark past - she served five years in prison for murder in her teens. Her criminal past was revealed publicly in 1994 when it was dramatized in the movie "Heavenly Creatures". Despite her past, Perry went on to have a successful writing career, creating multiple series of detective novels set in 19th-century London.