Looking for a book that starts with the letter D for your A to Z reading challenge? You’re in the right place! By chance, I’ve gathered the books I have read this year beginning with the letter D Surprisingly, they are all mystery thrillers, so I think they will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you're after intense plot twists, strong characters, or pulse-pounding suspense, these novels offer it all. Have a look at these gripping reads and find your next thrilling escape! Don’t forget to bookmark the page as I will come back and add to it as I read more books that begin with the letter D.
Title: Death By A Honey Bee
Author: Abigail Keam
Genre: Mystery
Series: A Josiah Reynolds Mystery
Date Published: 2020
Book Length: 298
Format: Kindle I purchased myself
Star Rating: 3/5 I liked it, It’s OK
About Book: Josiah Reynolds is a beekeeper trying to stay financially afloat by selling honey at the farmers' market. She finds her world turned upside down when a man is found dead in her bee yard, only to discover the victim is her nemesis. The police are calling the brutal death murder and Josiah is the number one suspect! Fighting an unknown enemy in the glamorous world of Thoroughbreds, oak-cured bourbon, and antebellum mansions, Josiah struggles to uncover the truth in a land that keeps its secrets well. Josiah faces the world with sarcastic humour and a number of quirky, oddball friends that can only be found in the Bluegrass town of Lexington, the heart of Kentucky horse country. Some mysteries end with a bang, some are not solved at all and the first one ends with a cliff hanger, but they always entertain in the sassy, humorous, and suspenseful world as Josiah goes about sleuthing. Like Agatha Christie's Miss Marple, Josiah observes the world about her and solves even the most troubling cases.
My Thoughts: Death by a Honey Bee" introduces readers to a charming world of honey, hives, and murder mysteries. Set in a picturesque Kentucky countryside, the story follows Josiah Reynolds, an amateur beekeeper and sleuth, as she stumbles upon a series of suspicious deaths in her small town.
Abigail Keam's writing style captures the essence of a cosy mystery, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws you into the quaint world of beekeeping and amateur detective work. The honeybee theme adds a unique and refreshing touch to the plot, showcasing the author's knowledge and passion for the subject.
While the book promises an intriguing premise, I found the pacing to be a bit uneven, with certain parts dragging on while others raced ahead. Additionally, the characters, while likeable, lacked some depth, leaving me wanting more emotional connection with their struggles and motivations.
Overall, "Death by a Honey Bee" has the potential to be a delightful and engaging cosy mystery, especially for readers with an interest in beekeeping and rural settings. However, it falls short of reaching its full buzz-worthy potential due to pacing issues and character development. If you're looking for a light and easy read with a unique twist, this book might still be worth a taste, but it might not satisfy readers seeking a more immersive and intricate mystery experience.
Title: A Death at The Party
Author: Amy Stuart
Genre: Thriller, Mystery Suspense
Publisher: Penguin
Date Published: 2023
Format: Paperback that was given to me as a present
Star Rating: 4/5 I liked it a lot and recommend
About Book: Nadine Walsh's party started with excitement. But it ended in murder . . .In the day, she frets over the final details. She's determined to make this the event of the year. A chance for everyone to forget the past. In the evening, she's distracted. Her husband and two grown children are consumed with their own concerns. The neighbours are getting on her nerves. But it's Nadine's own secrets that threaten the party. By the end of the night, she will be standing over a dead body . . .But which of her guests will she have murdered? And why?
My Thoughts: A Death at the Party" by Amy Stuart is a captivating mystery novel that skilfully combines suspense, secrets, and a vibrant cast of characters. From the very first page, Stuart pulls readers into a world of intrigue and danger, keeping them guessing until the final conclusion.
Amy Stuart excels at creating an atmosphere of suspense and tension that permeates every chapter. The pacing is well-balanced, with a steady stream of clues and revelations that maintain a sense of momentum and engagement. The author skilfully weaves multiple storylines together, keeping readers on their toes as they piece together the puzzle alongside the protagonist.
The characters in "A Death at the Party" are richly developed and distinct. Each has their own agenda and hidden depths, making them compelling suspects. The protagonist is relatable and well-drawn, displaying intelligence and resilience as they uncover the truth. The interactions and dynamics between the characters add depth to the narrative, creating a complex and immersive reading experience.
Stuart's writing style is fluid and polished, making for an effortless reading experience. She excels at crafting vivid descriptions, bringing both the glamorous and seedy aspects of the party scene to life. The author's attention to detail helps to immerse readers in the story and enhances the overall atmosphere of intrigue.
In conclusion, "A Death at the Party" is a compelling mystery that will keep readers guessing until the final page. Amy Stuart's ability to create a sense of suspense and craft well-rounded characters is commendable. If you're an Agatha Christie fan and a fan of intricately plotted whodunits with a dash of glamour and a side of suspense, this book is well worth picking up.
Title: Deep Exposure
Author: Rob Wilbur
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Date Published: 2023
Format: e book that was supplied to me by Voracious Readers in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 4/5 I liked it a lot and recommend
About Book: In his desperation to revive a failing career, journalist Jack O’Brien thinks he may have found the big story he’s been looking for. But chasing a dangerous lead across the Mexican border lands him in the Sonoran Desert, where he clashes with a hired assassin who was sent to kill the man Jack was following. In a desperate struggle that leaves two men dead, he somehow escapes death himself. The Mexican police need a fall guy though, and so falsely accuse him of murder. Then, an acquittal gives him a second chance. With the help of his anonymous informant who gave him the lead in the first place, O’Brien learns who was behind what happened to him. It’s a shadowy organization that buys patents and technologies and secretly sells them to powerful monopolies who see these as a threat to their survival and will pay dearly to make sure they become lost forever. Jack and his partner are outraged, and vow to expose everything. But what he doesn’t know is they’re hiding something much more sinister in their secret base of operations in the Rocky Mountains. When he inadvertently stumbles upon it and alerts them as to his whereabouts, they proceed to hunt him down in order to destroy him and any evidence he has accumulated of their crimes. He eludes their grasp and narrowly escapes further attempts on his own life, but his comrades that assisted him have been captured. Only he can save their lives using the one weapon he knows how to wield—the threat of the power of the press. The only question is, can he face down the enemy on their own turf and stay alive long enough to pull it off?
My Thoughts: Deep Exposure" by Rob Wilbur is a captivating thriller that plunges readers into the intricate world of investigative journalism. With its high-stakes plot, well-drawn characters, and thought-provoking themes, this book offers a thrilling reading experience from beginning to end.
One of the highlights of "Deep Exposure" is the author's attention to detail when it comes to character development. Jack O’Brien is a multi-dimensional and relatable character, flawed yet determined. His internal struggles and moral dilemmas add depth to the narrative, making him engaging to follow. The supporting cast is equally well-crafted, each playing a crucial role in the unfolding events.
Rob Wilbur's writing style is sharp and immersive. The pacing is well-maintained, with a perfect balance between intense action sequences and introspective moments. The author's ability to create tension and maintain a sense of urgency adds to the overall enjoyment of the story.
In addition to its thrilling plot, "Deep Exposure" explores relevant and thought-provoking themes. The book delves into the power dynamics of journalism, the ethical responsibilities of reporters, and the blurred lines between personal and professional lives. These deeper layers of the narrative elevate the story beyond a simple thriller, encouraging readers to reflect on the consequences of seeking the truth.
In conclusion, "Deep Exposure" is a gripping thriller that will satisfy fans of mysteries. Rob Wilbur's ability to craft a suspenseful narrative with well-rounded characters is commendable. If you enjoy stories that delve into the dark underbelly of corruption and the sacrifices made in pursuit of truth, "Deep Exposure" is a book that should definitely be on your radar. This book was supplied to me by Voracious Readers in return for an honest review.
Title: Dante Connection
Author: Estelle Ryan
Genre: Thriller Mystery
Series: Book 2 of 15 in the Genevieve Lenard Series
Date Published: 2013
Book length: 361
Format: E book I purchased myself
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: Despite her initial disbelief, Doctor Genevieve Lenard discovers that she is the key that connects stolen works of art, ciphers and sinister threats.
Betrayed by the people who called themselves her friends, Genevieve throws herself into her insurance investigation job with autistic single-mindedness. When hacker Francine appears beaten and bloodied on her doorstep, begging for her help, Genevieve is forced to get past the hurt of her friends’ abandonment and team up with them to find the perpetrators.
Little does she know that it will take her on a journey through not one, but two twisted minds to discover the true target of their mysterious messages. It will take all her personal strength and knowledge as a nonverbal communications expert to overcome fears that could cost not only her life, but the lives of many others.
My Thoughts: "Dante Connection" by Estelle Ryan is a tour de force in the world of psychological thrillers, and it's a book that had me utterly engrossed from the very first page. This is a heart-pounding, mind-bending masterpiece that deserves nothing less than a resounding five-star review.
Estelle Ryan has an uncanny ability to craft a plot that's as intricate as a spider's web. In "Dante Connection," she weaves a tale of mystery and suspense that keeps you guessing at every turn. As an avid reader of thrillers, I've come to appreciate the importance of a well-executed plot, and Ryan delivers on every front. The story is like a meticulously constructed puzzle, with each piece fitting together in a way that keeps you hooked until the very end.
One of the standout features of this book is the protagonist, Dr. Genevieve Lenard. She's a complex and brilliantly crafted character, a brilliant art investigator with a penchant for detail and a mind that works like a supercomputer and I love her. Her vulnerabilities and quirks make her incredibly relatable, and I found myself rooting for her throughout the story. Ryan's character development is top-notch, and it's one of the reasons why "Dante Connection" is such a compelling read.
The writing style in this book is flawless. Estelle Ryan's prose is both elegant and evocative, making it easy to visualise every scene and feel every emotion. She has a way of immersing you in the story, pulling you deeper and deeper until you're completely lost in the world she's created. It's a testament to her skill as a writer that I felt like I was right there with Genevieve, experiencing every twist and turn alongside her.
The psychological aspect of "Dante Connection" is nothing short of brilliant. Ryan delves into the minds of her characters in a way that's both unsettling and utterly fascinating. The exploration of art, obsession, and the dark recess of the human psyche adds a layer of depth to the story that sets it apart from other thrillers in the genre.
What truly sets "Dante Connection" apart, though, is its ability to keep you on the edge of your seat. The suspense is palpable, and the pacing is impeccable. It's a rollercoaster of a read, with surprises and revelations that left me gasping. As a reader who prides myself on solving mysteries before the big reveal, I have to admit that this book had me stumped more than once. It's a testament to Estelle Ryan's storytelling prowess that she can keep readers guessing until the very end.
In summary, "Dante Connection" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. Estelle Ryan has crafted a literary gem that excels in every aspect of storytelling. From its intricate plot to its well-drawn characters and masterful writing, this book is a five-star tour de force that will leave you hungry for more. I can't recommend it highly enough, and I can't wait to dive into more of Estelle Ryan's work.
Title: Dark Shadow
Author: Simon Dinsdale
Genre: Crime Thriller, Mystery
Series: A Detective Christian Danes Thriller Book 1 of 2
Date Published: 2023
Book Length: 246
Format: Paperback supplied by Love Books Tours in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: Detective Superintendent Christian Dane is an experienced Senior Investigating Officer. But when he is called to the brutal slaying of three petty criminals, Dane is confronted with a crime scene the like of which he has never experienced.He calls in Detective Constable Hayley Cross, a talented young officer, to assist him. Their investigation of the perplexing case is hampered by an inexperienced boss, little forensic evidence, and nothing to explain why the victims were murdered.As the pace of the investigation increases two more bodies are discovered. A French fisherman shot on a Dorset beach and a cocaine dealer in Cambridge, both forensically linked to the first murders, confirming they are after no ordinary killer.Dane is under increasing pressure to apprehend the killer. He is forced to confront his own history when ambushed by a journalist - and turns to his old Army commander, General Smith, for help. The detective finally identifies a suspect and aided by Hayley, hunts him down - as a shadow figure from his own past threatens to destroy him.
My Thoughts: Dark Shadow by Simon Dinsdale is book 1 of 2 in the Detective Christian Dane series. I found the book easy to follow as the prose flowed systematically. The characters were well defined, and I settled into the book right from the start. However, you could still feel there were secrets about the main protagonists that was waiting to unfold.
I also enjoyed the elements of the private lives that were intertwined within the story it makes it all feel more realistic.
I did wonder at the point of DCS Grant in the story as he only ever did one thing and then he stopped appearing. However, this did not hinder the overall story.
Dinsdale’s attention to detail in and understanding of police procedures shines through and makes the story more believable.
The partnership between Dane and Cross is compelling, and for me adds a layer of depth and with every twist and turn Dinsdale kept me guessing right until the end.
In conclusion Dark Shadow by Simon Dinsdale is a must read for fans of crime fiction with authentic portrayal of police procedure that make this an easy book to recommend.
Whether you're ticking off your A to Z reading list or simply searching for your next book fix, these books beginning with D are sure to deliver. Each one is packed with intrigue, twists, and unforgettable characters. So, grab one and enjoy the ride. And if you've read any of these or have more D-titled recommendations, drop a comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Alis x
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