Last collection of books

The Plotters

2010, Un-su Kim

"The Plotters" is a gripping novel set in a dystopian world where assassins are hired to eliminate targets chosen by a secret organization. Reseng, a highly skilled and detached killer, finds himself caught in a web of conspiracy and betrayal when his latest target turns out to be someone he knows.

Wife Of The Gods

2009, Kwei Quartey

In a small village in Ghana, a young woman's body is found in a sacred forest, sparking an investigation led by Detective Inspector Darko Dawson. As he delves into the case, Darko uncovers a web of secrets and corruption that reaches high into the country's political elite. Along the way, he must co

What The Dead Know

2007, Laura Lippman

In "What The Dead Know" by Laura Lippman, a woman claiming to be one of the two missing Bethany sisters suddenly appears after thirty years, setting off a chain of events that forces the police, the media, and the families involved to revisit the unsolved case. As the truth slowly unravels, secrets

Queenpin

2007, Megan Abbott

"Queenpin" by Megan Abbott is a gripping crime novel set in the 1950s, following the life of a young woman who becomes entangled in the world of organized crime. The story delves into the dark underbelly of the criminal underworld as the protagonist navigates her way through dangerous alliances and

Snakeskin Shamisen

2006, Naomi Hirahara

"Snakeskin Shamisen" is a captivating mystery novel set in Los Angeles, following the life of Mas Arai, a Japanese-American gardener and Hiroshima survivor. When a fellow musician is found dead, Mas becomes entangled in a web of secrets and cultural tensions as he navigates the worlds of traditional

The Devotion Of Suspect X

2005, Keigo Higashino

"The Devotion of Suspect X" is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the cat-and-mouse game between a brilliant mathematician and a determined detective. When a woman commits murder to protect her daughter, her neighbor, a brilliant mathematician, comes to her aid, meticulously planning the

Death Of A Red Heroine

2000, Qiu Xiaolong

"Death Of A Red Heroine" is a crime novel set in 1990s Shanghai, China. The story follows Inspector Chen Cao as he investigates the murder of a young woman, whose body is found in a canal. As Chen delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption, political intrigue, and personal secrets

Blanche Passes Go

2000, Barbara Neely

"Blanche Passes Go" is a compelling mystery novel that follows the life of Blanche White, an African-American housekeeper with a knack for solving crimes. When a prominent white family's matriarch mysteriously dies, Blanche becomes entangled in a web of secrets and deceit. As she navigates through r

Those Bones Are Not My Child

1999, Toni Cade Bambara

Set in Atlanta during the early 1980s, this novel explores the devastating impact of the Atlanta Child Murders on the African American community. Focusing on the lives of various characters, including parents, activists, and law enforcement, the story delves into the complex web of fear, grief, and

Inner City Blues

1999, Paula L. Woods

"Inner City Blues" follows the story of a determined African American detective, who finds herself caught in a web of corruption and deceit while investigating a high-profile murder case in Los Angeles. As she delves deeper into the city's dark underbelly, she must navigate through racial tensions,

Out

1997, Natsuo Kirino

"Out" by Natsuo Kirino is a gripping and dark psychological thriller set in Tokyo. The story revolves around four women who work the night shift at a factory and become entangled in a web of murder and cover-up. As they struggle to dispose of a dead body, their lives quickly spiral out of control, r

Lady Joker

1997, Kaoru Takamura

"Lady Joker" is a gripping crime thriller set in Japan, where a mysterious woman named Yuriko becomes entangled in a dangerous game of deceit and revenge. As she navigates the seedy underbelly of Tokyo, Yuriko takes on various identities, using her cunning and intelligence to manipulate those around

Fade Away

1996, Harlan Coben

In "Fade Away" by Harlan Coben, former basketball star Myron Bolitar is drawn back into the world of professional sports when he receives a desperate call for help from his ex-girlfriend, Emily. As Myron investigates her disappearance, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies involving the dark underbe

When Death Comes Stealing

1994, Valerie Wilson Wesley

"When Death Comes Stealing" is a gripping mystery novel that follows Tamara Hayle, a former cop turned private investigator, as she delves into the suspicious death of a young woman named Crystal. As Tamara unravels the truth behind Crystal's demise, she uncovers a web of deceit, corruption, and sec

Dead Time

1992, Eleanor Taylor Bland

"Dead Time" is a gripping crime novel that follows the determined and resourceful African-American police detective, Marti MacAlister, as she investigates a series of mysterious deaths in a small Midwestern town. As the body count rises, Marti must navigate through a web of secrets and lies, uncover

Mean Spirit

1990, Linda Hogan

"Mean Spirit" by Linda Hogan is a gripping novel set in 1920s Oklahoma during the oil boom, where greed and violence run rampant. The story follows the lives of several interconnected characters, including members of the Osage Nation who are targeted for their newfound wealth and forced to confront

The Decagon House Murders

1987, Yukito Ayatsuji

In a secluded island, seven university students gather at the Decagon House to spend their summer vacation. However, their peaceful retreat quickly turns into a nightmare when one of them is found dead, mimicking a murder described in a mystery novel. As more bodies appear, the remaining students mu

The Honjin Murders

1946, Seishi Yokomizo

"The Honjin Murders" is a captivating mystery novel set in a rural village in Japan. When a young couple is found brutally murdered on their wedding night in an isolated mansion, the local police are baffled by the lack of evidence and suspects. As the investigation unfolds, dark family secrets, hid

Beast In View

1955, Margaret Millar

"Beast In View" by Margaret Millar is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the story of Helen Clarvoe, a troubled woman who becomes entangled in a web of deception and manipulation. When Helen receives a series of disturbing phone calls from an unknown caller, she becomes convinced that so

Beat Not The Bones

1952, Charlotte Jay

In "Beat Not The Bones" by Charlotte Jay, an Australian journalist named Lewis Hall travels to the remote Pacific island of Aldabran to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a fellow journalist. As he delves deeper into the island's secrets, Lewis uncovers a web of corruption, violence, and cu

In A Lonely Place

1947, Dorothy B. Hughes

Set in post-World War II Los Angeles, "In A Lonely Place" follows the story of Dix Steele, a former fighter pilot turned Hollywood screenwriter. Dix becomes a prime suspect in a series of brutal murders plaguing the city. As the investigation unfolds, the novel delves into the dark depths of Dix's p

The Conjure Man Dies

1932, Rudolph Fisher

"The Conjure Man Dies" is a captivating mystery set in 1930s Harlem, where a prominent African American physician is found dead in his home. As the police investigate, a cast of intriguing characters emerges, including a voodoo priest, a cunning detective, and a journalist determined to uncover the

The Patient In Room 18

1929, Mignon G. Eberhart

"The Patient In Room 18" is a suspenseful mystery novel set in a hospital where a mysterious patient is admitted. As the staff tries to uncover the patient's identity and the reason behind their condition, they become entangled in a web of secrets, deceit, and danger. With each passing chapter, the

The Leavenworth Case

1878, Anna Katharine Green

"The Leavenworth Case" is a gripping detective novel that follows the investigation of a wealthy man's murder. When the head of the Leavenworth family is found dead in his locked study, suspicion falls on his niece, who stands to inherit his fortune. As the evidence against her mounts, a brilliant y

A Shock

2021, Keith Ridgway

"A Shock" by Keith Ridgway is a dark and unsettling novel that explores the interconnected lives of various characters in a small Irish town. Through a series of fragmented narratives, the book delves into themes of violence, isolation, and the destructive power of secrets. With its lyrical prose an

Lote

2020, Shola von Reinhold

"Lote" is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that follows the journey of a young protagonist named Lote as they navigate the complexities of identity, race, and art in contemporary London. Through a series of encounters with various characters, Lote explores themes of belonging, self-discovery

Ducks, Newburyport

2019, Lucy Ellmann

"Ducks, Newburyport" is a sprawling and ambitious novel that explores the inner thoughts and experiences of an Ohio housewife as she goes about her daily life. The narrative is presented in a stream-of-consciousness style, with the protagonist's mind constantly jumping between various topics, memori

Crudo

2018, Olivia Laing

"Crudo" is a vibrant and introspective novel that follows a writer named Kathy as she navigates the chaotic world of her own mind and the tumultuous political landscape of the summer of 2017. Set against the backdrop of Brexit and the Trump presidency, Kathy grapples with the realities of aging, lov

Attrib. And Other Stories

2017, Eley Williams

"Attrib. And Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that explores themes of language, memory, and identity. The stories are filled with quirky characters and unexpected situations, often blurring the line between reality and imagination. Through playful and inventive prose, the author delve

You Don’t Have To Live Like This

2015, Benjamin Markovits

"You Don’t Have To Live Like This" is a thought-provoking novel that follows a group of Yale graduates who embark on a risky social experiment in a struggling Detroit neighborhood. As they attempt to revitalize the area, they are confronted with the harsh realities of race, class, and gentrification

In The Light Of What We Know

2014, Zia Haider Rahman

The book is a complex and thought-provoking exploration of friendship, identity, and the search for meaning. It follows the intertwined lives of two men, one a privileged banker and the other a mathematician from Bangladesh, as they navigate personal and global crises. Through their conversations an

The Deadman’s Pedal

2012, Alan Warner

"The Deadman's Pedal" is a coming-of-age novel set in a small Scottish town in the 1970s. It follows the life of Simon Crimmons, a young trainee signalman who becomes infatuated with a local girl, Nikki, and finds himself caught up in the complexities of adult relationships and the harsh realities o

You And I

2011, Padgett Powell

"You And I" is a thought-provoking and introspective novel that delves into the complex dynamics of friendship and the human experience. Through a series of conversations and musings between two unnamed characters, the book explores themes of identity, love, loss, and the inherent struggles of exist

The Lotus Eaters

2010, Tatjani Soli

"The Lotus Eaters" is a gripping novel that takes readers on a journey through the Vietnam War. Set in the 1970s, the story follows Helen, a daring and ambitious photojournalist who becomes deeply entrenched in the war-torn country. As Helen captures the horrors and beauty of Vietnam through her cam

Our Horses In Egypt

2007, Rosalind Belben

"Our Horses in Egypt" is a poignant and heartwarming tale set during World War I. The story follows a young woman named Griselda who embarks on a journey to Egypt to find her beloved horses that were sent there to serve in the war. Through her encounters with various characters and her determination

Gb84

2004, David Peace

"GB84" by David Peace is a gripping novel set during the 1984-1985 miners' strike in Britain. The story follows the lives of various characters, including union leaders, miners, and government officials, as they navigate the brutal and violent clash between the National Union of Mineworkers and the

Personality

2003, Andrew O'Hagan

"Personality" by Andrew O'Hagan is a thought-provoking exploration of identity and fame in the digital age. The book follows the story of a famous actress who decides to create a digital replica of herself to preserve her legacy. As the replica interacts with fans and becomes more popular, it raises

Something Like A House

2001, Sid Smith

"Something Like A House" is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores the complex relationships between family members and the impact of secrets on their lives. Set in post-war Britain, the story follows a young boy named Joe who is sent to live with his estranged grandparents in a dilapi

Renegade Or Halo2

1999, Timothy Mo

"Renegade Or Halo2" by Timothy Mo is a thought-provoking and gripping novel that explores the complex themes of identity, culture, and the impact of technology on society. Set in a dystopian future, the story follows a renegade protagonist as he navigates a world divided between the privileged elite

Master Georgie

1998, Beryl Bainbridge

"Master Georgie" by Beryl Bainbridge is a historical novel set in the mid-19th century during the Crimean War. The story revolves around the life of George Hardy, a talented but troubled surgeon, and the people who are drawn into his orbit. Through the perspectives of different characters, the book

Ingenious Pain

1997, Andrew Miller

The book explores the life of James Dyer, a man born in 18th century England with a peculiar condition - he cannot feel physical pain. Despite this, Dyer's life is far from painless as he navigates through various experiences, from working as a sideshow attraction to becoming a surgeon. As he encoun

The Prestige

1995, Christopher Priest

"The Prestige" is a captivating tale of rivalry and obsession set in the world of 19th-century stage magic. The story follows two magicians, Alfred Borden and Rupert Angier, as they engage in a fierce competition to create the ultimate illusion. As their rivalry escalates, both men become consumed b

The Folding Star

1994, Alan Hollinghurst

"The Folding Star" by Alan Hollinghurst is a captivating novel that follows the life of a young Englishman named Edward Manners who moves to Belgium to become a language tutor. As he immerses himself in the local culture, Edward becomes infatuated with one of his students, a 17-year-old boy named Lu

Crossing The River

1993, Caryl Phillips

"Crossing The River" is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores the lives of African diaspora through multiple generations and continents. Through a series of interconnected stories, the book delves into themes of slavery, identity, and the search for belonging. From the harrowing journ

Sacred Country

1992, Rose Tremain

"Sacred Country" is a thought-provoking novel that follows the journey of Mary Ward, a young girl who realizes from a young age that she was born in the wrong body and should have been a boy. As she grows older, Mary undergoes a gender transition and becomes Martin, facing numerous challenges and pr

Downriver

1991, Iain Sinclair

"Downriver" follows the journey of a nameless narrator as he traverses the murky waterways of London, delving into the city's forgotten past and exploring the hidden corners of its present. Through encounters with eccentric characters and vivid descriptions of the decaying urban landscape, the narra

A Disaffection

1989, James Kelman

"A Disaffection" is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the mind of Patrick Doyle, a disillusioned schoolteacher living in Glasgow. As he navigates through his mundane existence, Patrick's internal monologue exposes his deep-rooted dissatisfaction with society, his job, and his relationships.

A Season In The West

1988, Piers Paul Read

"A Season In The West" is a gripping historical novel that takes place during the American Civil War. Set in the tumultuous West, the story follows a young Union soldier named John who finds himself caught up in the chaos and violence of the war. As he navigates through battles, encounters with Nati

The Golden Bird

1962, George Mackay Brown

"The Golden Bird: Two Orkney Stories" is a captivating collection of two enchanting tales set in the mystical Orkney Islands. Through rich and vivid storytelling, the book explores themes of love, loss, and the power of the natural world. With lyrical prose and a deep understanding of human emotions

Persephone

1986, Jenny Joseph

"Persephone" is a captivating novel that follows the life of a young woman named Persephone as she navigates through the challenges of love, loss, and self-discovery. Set in a picturesque English countryside, the story explores Persephone's complex relationships with her family, friends, and romanti

Allegro Postillions

1983, Jonathan Keates

"Allegro Postillions" by Jonathan Keates is a captivating historical novel set in 18th century Europe. The story follows a group of postillions, skilled horsemen who guide coaches and carriages, as they embark on a thrilling journey across the continent. Filled with adventure, romance, and intrigue,

The Mosquito Coast

1981, Paul Theroux

"The Mosquito Coast" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that follows the eccentric and idealistic inventor, Allie Fox, as he uproots his family from suburban America to create a utopian society in the jungles of Honduras. As they face numerous challenges and dangers, Allie's obsession with hi

Plumb

1978, Maurice Gee

In "Plumb" by Maurice Gee, readers are introduced to a small New Zealand town called Waimaru, where a tragic accident occurs, leaving a young boy dead. The aftermath of this event reveals the dark secrets and hidden tensions within the community, as the lives of various characters intertwine and unr

The Honourable Schoolboy

1977, John le Carré

In this gripping spy thriller, a British intelligence officer named Jerry Westerby is sent on a perilous mission to uncover a complex web of corruption and espionage in Southeast Asia. As he delves deeper into the dangerous world of international politics, Westerby must navigate treacherous alliance

Doctor Copernicus

1976, John Banville

"Doctor Copernicus" is a historical novel that delves into the life of the renowned astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. Set in the 16th century, the book explores Copernicus' journey from a young boy growing up in Poland to his groundbreaking discovery that the Earth revolves around the Sun. As the prot

The Great Victorian Collection

1975, Brian Moore

"The Great Victorian Collection" is a captivating novel that follows the journey of a wealthy collector who becomes obsessed with acquiring a vast collection of Victorian artifacts. As he delves deeper into his obsession, he becomes entangled in a world of deception, greed, and scandal. Set in the b

Monsieur, Or The Prince Of Darkness

1974, Lawrence Durrell

"Monsieur, Or The Prince Of Darkness" is a captivating novel that explores the complex and enigmatic life of a man known as Monsieur. Set against the backdrop of post-war Europe, the story delves into Monsieur's mysterious past, his involvement in espionage, and his relationships with various intrig

A Guest Of Honour

1970, Nadine Gordimer

"A Guest Of Honour" is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of political power and personal morality. Set in an unnamed African country, the story follows a British colonial administrator who is appointed as a temporary president after the country gains independence. As he nav

The Bird Of Paradise

1970, Lily Powell

"The Bird of Paradise" is a captivating novel that follows the life of a young woman named Emily as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Set against the backdrop of a lush tropical island, Emily finds herself entangled in a web of secrets, love, and betrayal. As she naviga

The Gasteropod

1968, Maggie Ross

"The Gasteropod" by Maggie Ross is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, blending philosophy, science, and personal anecdotes. Through a series of interconnected essays, Ross delves into the intricate complexities of existence, questioning our relationship with nature, the meaning