Scan barcode
shelfofunread's review
informative
inspiring
fast-paced
4.5
Some books do exactly what they say on the tin and are all the better for it. 50 Books to Read If You’re an Armchair Detective, the first in a new series of gift books that celebrate reading, is one such book.
Edited by avid reader and book blogger Eric Karl Anderson, aka Lonesome Reader, 50 Books to Read If You’re an Armchair Detective is a pocket-sized guide to the world of crime fiction, and features a wide range of both classic and contemporary titles.
As an aficionado of crime novels, I expected to be familiar with many of the titles featured so was pleasantly surprised to encounter a number of entirely unfamiliar works. Whilst the foundational classics of the genre are well represented – Christie, Sayers & Co are all present and correct – Anderson has included several lesser-known titles. His selection encompasses settings from across the globe, presenting a wide diversity of characters and sub-genres. So whether you like your crime to come in classic format, with a side of wry humour, with a literary bent, or with a shiver of the supernatural, you’ll be well served here!
Smartly presented in a cute pocket-size, 50 Books to Read If You’re an Armchair Detective also has an interactive element. Each selection features a succinct summary of the novel in question – and Anderson’s thoughts on why it is deserving of inclusion – alongside space for readers to add the date read and a star rating. There’s also a few pages towards the end of the book for noting favourite reads, your TBR, and further thoughts. Accompanying illustrations and graphics give each page a clean but lively design, making this the perfect stocking filler for crime fans this Christmas season.
Whilst 50 Books to Read If You’re an Armchair Detective isn’t going to take more than a couple of hours to read in and of itself, it offers the potential to introduce armchair detectives young and old to many hours of pleasurable reading. Whether you’re a veteran of many cases or have only just dipped your toe into the genre’s vast waters, 50 Books to Read If You’re an Armchair Detective is sure to provide you with some new investigations to keep you on your toes!
More...