Ultimate Summer Reads: Crime Fiction
Check out this list of 15 crime thrillers and mysteries that will keep you guessing all summer long. From well-known authors like Ian Rankin and Agatha Christie to new releases by Bret Easton Ellis and Emma Cline, there's something for everyone on this list. See what Guardian Australia's staff and critics recommend for your beach reads.
The Sean Duffy series by Adrian McKinty
What better way to spend a warm Aussie beach day than diving into a wet and gritty Belfast winter? The Sean Duffy series follows a bohemian Catholic cop serving in the Protestant Royal Ulster Constabulary, solving murders in a place where secrets are kept and no one talks. Start with "The Cold Cold Ground" and let McKinty's brilliant storytelling captivate you.
McKinty is considered one of the best crime writers in Australia, and his series is a must-read for any crime fiction lover. From explosive stories to locked-door mysteries, the Duffy series has it all. Don't miss out on this thrilling journey through Belfast's dark underbelly.
The Shards by Bret Easton Ellis
Step into the deranged and enthralling world of Bret Easton Ellis with "The Shards." Set in 80s uptown LA, this pulpy sex-crime thriller follows the valedictory school year of a protagonist entangled in a compelling serial killer narrative. Ellis weaves his own biographical details into this insane and twisted tale of privilege, paranoia, and ultraviolence.
With waxy yet erotic sex scenes, exhaustive pop references, and a weirdly intoxicating atmosphere, "The Shards" will leave you reeling. Get ready for a wild ride through the dark side of LA's elite.
The Secret of Chimneys by Agatha Christie
With Agatha Christie, you can't go wrong. "The Secret of Chimneys" is a personal favorite and a book that I frequently reread. Filled with will-they-won't-they plot lines and an abundance of red herrings, this murder spy romcom keeps you guessing until the very end.
If you prefer a series, look no further than Christie's renowned character, Poirot. Whether it's the classic "The Murder of Roger Ackroyd" or the sublimely nasty "Dumb Witness," Christie's genius for crafting intriguing mysteries shines through. And let's not forget the delightful Miss Marple and Superintendent Battle, both offering their own unique brand of crime-solving.
