With all that is going on in the world, I am oddly drawn to mysteries, especially series. Even if some of my favorite characters get hurt—or worse—I trust that the protagonist will survive for the next book. I’m now deep into two series and hope the authors keep the stories coming.
A couple of years ago, I read Snow, a stand-alone crime novel, and discovered John Banville’s particular voice. So I sought out his other books, including those written under the name Benjamin Black. After listening to the Even the Dead audiobook and then to April in Spain (both well narrated), I realized that there are now eight books in the series featuring the inimitable Dr. Quirke.
Going back to the beginning of the series set in 1950s Dublin, I read Christine Falls (2006). Even though I knew how a few of the plot twists turned out, the tale of the life and times of Quirke, a pathologist with an interesting backstory, is entirely engaging. Trying to figure out how the author gets from the second book to where I know we land in the seventh offers insight into fine character and plot development.
Meanwhile, Susan Hill, also a prolific writer, has set her contemporary series in a small English cathedral town, though these are not your gentle, cozy mysteries. Simon Serrailler is the Chief Superintendent and his complex and complicated family relationship is as important to the storylines as the crimes he investigates. There are eleven books in the series, starting with The Various Haunts of Men (2004).
Back to the hammock to read what transpires next!
Liza Bernard is a voracious reader who enjoys both printed volumes and audiobooks. Formerly co-owner of the Norwich Bookstore, she maintains her connections with readers and writers as the Programming and Marketing Librarian at the Norman Williams Public Library in Woodstock, Vermont.