Last collection of books

Smallbone Deceased

1950, Michael Gilbert

In this classic British mystery, a solicitor's office becomes the unlikely scene of a perplexing crime when a dead body is discovered in a deed box, leading to an investigation that delves into the intricate and secretive world of legal work. The novel combines wit with a meticulously plotted whodun

A Running Duck

1978, Paula Gosling

In this thriller, a woman finds herself in grave danger after witnessing a brutal murder committed by a professional hitman. As the sole person who can identify the killer, she becomes the target of his relentless pursuit. The police, recognizing the peril she's in, assign a dedicated detective to p

Devices And Desires

1989, P. D. James

In this gripping crime novel, a small coastal community is terrorized by a series of brutal murders, prompting Commander Adam Dalgliesh to take a much-needed respite from his duties at New Scotland Yard. However, his holiday is soon interrupted when he finds himself embroiled in the investigation of

Game, Set & Match

1983, Len Deighton

"Game, Set & Match" is a trilogy of espionage novels that follows the story of Bernard Samson, a middle-aged and somewhat jaded intelligence officer working for the British Secret Service. Set during the Cold War, Samson becomes embroiled in a complex web of intrigue, betrayal, and personal drama as

Penny Black

1984, Susan Moody

"Penny Black" is a mystery novel that introduces readers to Penny Wanawake, a savvy, black British photographer with a keen eye for detail and a penchant for solving crimes. The daughter of a diplomat and a fashion model, Penny is both sophisticated and streetwise. When her friend's husband dies und

Bertie And The Tin Man

1987, Peter Lovesey

Set in the Victorian era, the novel follows the adventures of Bertie, the Prince of Wales, who turns detective after the shocking suicide of a jockey during a high-society party. Doubting the official verdict, Bertie is drawn into the murky world of horse racing, where he uncovers a web of gambling,

A Taste For Death

1986, P. D. James

In this gripping crime novel, two bodies are discovered with their throats slashed in a London church, setting off a complex investigation led by Commander Adam Dalgliesh of Scotland Yard. As Dalgliesh and his team delve into the lives of the victims—a controversial Member of Parliament and a homele

The Journeying Boy

1949, Michael Innes

"The Journeying Boy" is a mystery novel that follows the peculiar adventures of Humphrey Paxton, the son of a famous physicist, as he travels to Ireland under the care of his tutor. However, the journey takes a series of unexpected turns when a mix-up at a guest house leads to a murder, drawing in a

The Devil In Velvet

1951, John Dickson Carr

In this historical mystery with a supernatural twist, a modern history professor makes a deal with the devil to be transported back to 17th-century London. His mission is to save a woman from being murdered, but upon his arrival in the past, he finds himself in the body of a notorious highwayman. As

A Demon In My View

1976, Ruth Rendell

The book revolves around a reclusive, socially awkward man who secretly harbors a dark fascination with death and has a history of committing murders. He lives in a boarding house, where he keeps a mannequin that he treats as if it were a real person, a chilling reflection of his disturbed psyche. H

The Lady In The Lake

1943, Raymond Chandler

In this classic hard-boiled detective novel, a wisecracking private investigator is hired to find the missing wife of a wealthy businessman, only to become embroiled in a complex web of deceit, corruption, and murder. As he delves deeper into the case, he encounters a cast of shady characters and un

The Leper Of Saint Giles

1981, Ellis Peters

In this historical mystery, set in the 12th century during the medieval period, a tragic murder unfolds amidst the backdrop of an impending wedding between a wealthy, old nobleman and a young orphaned girl. The story's protagonist, a compassionate and intelligent monk, takes on the role of detective

Strangers On A Train

1950, Patricia Highsmith

In this psychological thriller, two men meet by chance on a long train journey and strike up a conversation that leads to a chilling pact: each will commit a murder for the other, executing what they believe to be the perfect crimes due to their lack of obvious connection to the victims. However, as

The Dead Of Jericho

1981, Colin Dexter

In this gripping detective novel, Chief Inspector Morse is drawn into a complex web of relationships and deceit when he investigates the mysterious death of a woman in the quiet Jericho neighborhood of Oxford. Initially ruled as a suicide, Morse's instincts tell him there's more to the case, leading

Cop Hater

1956, Ed McBain

In the gritty urban landscape of the 87th Precinct, a series of brutal murders targeting police officers sends shockwaves through the force. As detectives scramble to find a pattern and motive behind the killings, they must navigate the treacherous streets and the complexities of their personal live

The Glass Key

1931, Dashiell Hammett

The novel centers around a savvy political fixer who finds himself embroiled in a complex web of betrayal, corruption, and murder. As he navigates the gritty underworld of a corrupt city, he must use his wits and toughness to protect his boss's political interests, solve a friend's murder, and untan

The Tiger In The Smoke

1952, Margery Allingham

In this classic detective novel, London is shrouded in a dense, disorienting fog that sets the perfect stage for a thrilling cat-and-mouse game. The story follows the cunning and resourceful private detective as he navigates the murky underworld of post-war London in pursuit of a ruthless killer. Th

The Moving Toyshop

1946, Edmund Crispin

In this classic British detective novel, a poet on holiday in Oxford stumbles upon a woman's body in a toyshop at night, only to find the shop has vanished by morning. Teaming up with an eccentric literature professor, the poet embarks on a whimsical and cerebral quest to solve the mystery, navigati

Malice Aforethought

1931, Francis Iles

In this pioneering psychological thriller, the reader is immediately introduced to a respected English doctor who has grown to despise his domineering wife. With cold calculation, he meticulously plans her murder, believing he can execute the perfect crime. However, as his scheme unfolds, a series o

Rogue Male

1939, Geoffrey Household

The book is a classic thriller that follows the story of an unnamed British sportsman who embarks on a daring attempt to assassinate a European dictator prior to World War II. After being caught and tortured, he escapes back to England, but his ordeal is far from over. Pursued by enemy agents who wa

The Franchise Affair

1948, Josephine Tey

The book revolves around a solicitor named Robert Blair who is called upon to defend two women, Marion Sharpe and her mother, accused of kidnapping a teenage girl named Betty Kane. Betty claims she was held captive and forced to work as a servant at the Sharpes' home, The Franchise. However, as Blai

The Ipcress File

1962, Len Deighton

The novel is a cold war espionage thriller that follows an unnamed British intelligence agent who is tasked with investigating the mysterious disappearances of prominent scientists. As he delves deeper into the case, he finds himself entangled in a complex web of intrigue, betrayal, and brainwashing

The Strategy Of Conflict

1960, Thomas Schelling

The book in question is a seminal work in game theory and strategic thinking, exploring how individuals and organizations can achieve their goals in situations of competition and conflict. The author delves into the paradoxes of strategic behavior, emphasizing the importance of credible commitments,

How To Build A Time Machine

2002, Paul Davies

The book is a fascinating exploration of the theoretical underpinnings and scientific principles that suggest the possibility of time travel. It delves into the realms of physics, particularly Einstein's theory of relativity, and examines how wormholes and cosmic strings could potentially be manipul

Mathematics, Form And Function

1986, Saunders Mac Lane

The book in question is a comprehensive exploration of the nature, origin, and historical development of mathematics. It delves into the philosophical and logical foundations of mathematical concepts, examining how they arise from natural phenomena and human activities. The work discusses the struct

Invention

1948, Norbert Wiener

The book in question is a seminal work that delves into the complex relationship between human beings and machines, exploring the profound implications of technological advancements on society. It discusses the principles of feedback and control in engineering and how these concepts apply to biologi

Shadows Of The Mind

1994, Roger Penrose

In "Shadows of the Mind," the author delves into the complex relationship between the physical brain and the conscious mind, arguing against the prevailing computational theory of mind. The book presents a hypothesis that human consciousness transcends algorithmic computation, suggesting that quantu

Consciousness Explained

1991, Daniel Dennett

The book in question offers a comprehensive theory of consciousness, challenging traditional views and proposing a scientific understanding of the mind. The author argues against the Cartesian model of consciousness as a central, unified entity and instead presents the "Multiple Drafts" model, which

A Leg To Stand On

1984, Oliver Sacks

In this introspective memoir, a renowned neurologist recounts his personal journey of recovery after suffering a severe leg injury in a mountaineering accident. The narrative delves into the author's profound experience of losing the sense of connection with his leg, as it becomes a foreign, unrespo

Pluto's Republic

1982, Peter B. Medawar

"Pluto's Republic" is a collection of essays and lectures that delve into the philosophical and social aspects of science, exploring the nature of scientific thought, the relationship between science and literature, and the role of creativity and intuition in scientific discovery. The book also exam

The Swimmers

2022, Julie Otsuka

The book is a poignant exploration of community, memory, and the human condition, centered around a group of swimmers who find solace and connection in their local underground pool. When a crack appears in the pool's bottom, the swimmers are dispersed, and the narrative shifts focus to one of them,

A Little Devil In America

2021, Hanif Abdurraqib

The book is a profound reflection on the history and impact of Black performance in the United States, weaving personal anecdotes with cultural criticism to explore how Black artists have shaped and been shaped by American culture. It delves into various forms of performance, from music to dance to

Fathoms

2020, Rebecca Giggs

"Fathoms: The World In The Whale" is a profound exploration of the relationship between humans and whales, delving into the history, mythology, and biology of these majestic creatures. The book weaves together environmental and cultural narratives, examining the impact of human activity on whales an

Heavy

2018, Kiese Laymon

This memoir is a profound exploration of the author's life as a Black man in America, grappling with the complex intersections of weight, identity, and societal expectations. Through a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally resonant, the author confronts the burdens of his own body,

Manhattan Beach

2017, Jennifer Egan

Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression and World War II, the novel follows the life of a young woman who becomes the first female diver to repair ships at the Brooklyn Naval Yard, where her father once worked before his mysterious disappearance. As she grows into her new role, she is drawn

Hold Still

2015, Sally Mann

In "Hold Still: A Memoir With Photographs," the author delves into the rich tapestry of her life, intertwining personal narrative with evocative photography to explore themes of family, mortality, and the storied landscape of the American South. Through a collection of intimate snapshots, candid ane

The Bully Pulpit

2013, Doris Kearns Goodwin

This historical work delves into the vibrant era of early 20th-century America, exploring the close friendship and eventual political rivalry between two presidents, Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft. It also highlights the crucial role of muckraking journalists who, with the support of Roo

Short Nights Of The Shadow Catcher

2012, Timothy Egan

The book chronicles the remarkable journey of an intrepid photographer who dedicated his life to documenting the lives and cultures of Native American tribes at the turn of the 20th century. With a passion that bordered on obsession, he traversed the American West, capturing thousands of images and

Canada

2012, Richard Ford

The novel follows the story of fifteen-year-old Dell Parsons, whose life is irrevocably changed after his parents commit a bank robbery in 1960s Montana. After the heist goes awry, Dell is left to fend for himself, and he crosses the border into Saskatchewan, Canada. There, he encounters a new world

Catherine The Great

2011, Robert K. Massie

This biography provides an in-depth look at the life of the longest-reigning female leader of Russia, tracing her journey from a minor German princess to the powerful Empress of Russia. It delves into her political achievements, her efforts to modernize Russia, and her numerous romantic liaisons, al

The Forgotten Waltz

2011, Anne Enright

The novel is a poignant exploration of an adulterous affair set against the backdrop of the economic downturn in Ireland. It follows the story of Gina Moynihan as she reflects on her passionate, yet complicated relationship with Sean Vallely, a man she meets at a party and with whom she embarks on a

Beach Read

2020, Emily Henry

In this contemporary romance novel, two polar-opposite writers find themselves as neighbors for the summer. She is a romance novelist grappling with cynicism after personal disillusionment, while he is a literary fiction author suffering from writer's block. Bound by a mutual challenge to step out o

A (Very) Short History Of Life On Earth

2021, Henry Gee

"A (Very) Short History Of Life On Earth: 4.6 Billion Years In 12 Pithy Chapters" is a concise exploration of the vast expanse of time that has shaped life on our planet. From the origins of life to the evolution of complex organisms, the book takes readers on a captivating journey through the key m

Entangled Life

2020, Merlin Sheldrake

"Entangled Life" explores the fascinating world of fungi and their intricate relationships with other organisms. From the underground networks that connect trees and plants to the role of fungi in shaping ecosystems, the book delves into the hidden realms of mycelium and its impact on our planet. Wi

Explaining Humans

2020, Camilla Pang

"Explaining Humans" is an insightful and thought-provoking book that explores the complexities of human behavior and neurodiversity. Written by Camilla Pang, a neurodivergent scientist, the book offers a unique perspective on understanding the world through the lens of autism and ADHD. With a blend

Invisible Women

2019, Caroline Criado Pérez

This book sheds light on the pervasive gender data gap that exists in our society, revealing how the world we live in is largely designed for men. Through extensive research and compelling examples, the author exposes the ways in which women are systematically excluded and overlooked in various aspe

Inventing Ourselves

2018, Sarah-Jayne Blakemore

"Inventing Ourselves: The Secret Life Of The Teenage Brain" explores the fascinating world of adolescent brain development, shedding light on the unique cognitive and emotional processes that shape teenage behavior. Drawing from cutting-edge research and personal anecdotes, the book delves into the

Testosterone Rex

2017, Cordelia Fine

"Testosterone Rex: Unmaking The Myths Of Our Gendered Minds" challenges the long-standing belief that testosterone is the primary driver of gender differences. The book explores the scientific evidence that debunks this myth and argues that societal expectations and cultural influences play a signif

Adventures In The Anthropocene

2014, Gaia Vince

"Adventures in the Anthropocene: A Journey to the Heart of the Planet We Made" takes readers on a captivating exploration of the Earth's current epoch, the Anthropocene, where human activities have become the dominant force shaping the planet. Through vivid storytelling and immersive experiences, th

Stuff Matters

2013, Mark Miodownik

In this captivating book, the author explores the fascinating world of materials that surround us, revealing their hidden stories and remarkable properties. From the glass in our windows to the concrete in our buildings, Miodownik takes readers on a journey through the history, science, and cultural

The Particle At The End Of The Universe

2012, Sean Carroll

"The Particle At The End Of The Universe" explores the fascinating world of particle physics, focusing on the discovery of the Higgs boson. Sean Carroll takes readers on a journey through the intricate experiments and theories that led to this groundbreaking discovery, shedding light on the fundamen

The Wavewatcher's Companion

2010, Gavin Pretor-Pinney

"The Wavewatcher's Companion" by Gavin Pretor-Pinney is a captivating exploration of waves in all their forms, from the crashing waves of the ocean to the invisible waves of sound and light. With a mix of scientific knowledge and poetic prose, the author takes readers on a journey through the fascin

Life Ascending

2009, Nick Lane

"Life Ascending" explores the remarkable and diverse mechanisms that have shaped life on Earth, from the origins of life to the evolution of complex organisms. Nick Lane delves into the fundamental questions of biology, unraveling the mysteries of how life emerged from the primordial soup and how it

The Age Of Wonder

2008, Richard Holmes

"The Age of Wonder" explores the scientific and cultural advancements of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, known as the Romantic Age. Richard Holmes delves into the lives and achievements of prominent figures such as Joseph Banks, Humphry Davy, and William Herschel, who revolutionized fields l

Six Degrees

2007, Mark Lynas

"Six Degrees: Our Future On A Hotter Planet" by Mark Lynas is a thought-provoking exploration of the potential consequences of global warming. Lynas presents a compelling argument by examining the various temperature increases and their corresponding impacts on our planet, from rising sea levels and

Electric Universe

2005, David Bodanis

"Electric Universe: How Electricity Switched On The Modern World" explores the fascinating history and impact of electricity on society. From the discovery of static electricity to the invention of the light bulb and the development of power grids, the book delves into the scientific breakthroughs a

Critical Mass

2004, Philip Ball

"Critical Mass: How One Thing Leads To Another" explores the concept of criticality and its pervasive influence in various natural and human-made systems. Through a captivating blend of scientific explanations and real-world examples, the author delves into the interconnectedness of phenomena, illus

Right Hand, Left Hand

2002, Chris McManus

"Right Hand, Left Hand" explores the fascinating world of handedness and its impact on human behavior, culture, and evolution. Chris McManus delves into the history of handedness, from ancient cave paintings to modern scientific studies, revealing the complex interplay between genetics, brain struct

The Universe In A Nutshell

2001, Stephen Hawking

"The Universe In A Nutshell" is a captivating exploration of the mysteries and complexities of the universe, written by renowned physicist Stephen Hawking. In this book, Hawking delves into the fundamental principles of physics, from the nature of space and time to the existence of multiple dimensio

Mapping The Deep

2000, Robert Kunzig

"Mapping The Deep" explores the mysterious and awe-inspiring world beneath the ocean's surface. Through captivating storytelling and scientific research, the book delves into the history of deep-sea exploration, revealing the incredible discoveries and challenges faced by scientists and explorers. F