Recent Crime and Thriller Book Reviews

In "Death at the Sign of the Rook," Kate Atkinson's sixth Jackson Brodie installment, the private investigator delves into a potential art theft linked to a recently deceased mother’s painting. Assisted by DC Reggie Chase, Brodie uncovers connections to a missing Turner from a nearby stately home, now converted into a hotel. The plot thickens during a murder mystery weekend, where a snowstorm traps guests, creating a tense atmosphere ripe for Atkinson's signature wit and engaging character dynamics. Susie Dent's debut novel, "Guilty By Definition," is set in the atmospheric backdrop of Oxford, where lexicographer Martha Thornhill and her colleagues receive cryptic letters tied to her sister Charlie's long-ago disappearance. As they decipher the clues, the narrative reveals Charlie's hidden complexities and secrets, making it a compelling read for lovers of language and puzzles. While it may lack emotional depth, its cleverness is sure to captivate logophiles. Garry Disher's "Sanctuary" introduces Grace, a skilled thief seeking refuge in a small Adelaide Hills town. As she forms a bond with antiques shop owner Erin Mandel, her past threatens to resurface, complicating her quest for peace. Disher skillfully weaves multiple perspectives, including that of her vengeful former partner, creating a gripping tale of moral ambiguity and suspense. Janice Hallett's "The Examiner" continues her trend of presenting readers with a dossier of evidence, promising an engaging mystery that invites readers to piece together the narrative puzzle.