TGIF! Today’s #FridayReads picks are three Minotaur mysteries that have received several starred reviews:
SHANGHAI REDEMPTION by Qiu Xiaolong
“Chinese exile Qiu once again movingly and convincingly portrays the plight of an honest cop in a police state, in his ninth novel featuring Insp. Chen Cao. The suspense is palpable, and Qiu gives readers a chilling vision of life under authoritarian rule.” Publishers Weekly, boxed & starred review
“Character study, murder mystery, insider’s look into the hypocrisy and corruption that riddles contemporary China—this novel delivers on all of these, with side dishes of ancient Chinese poetry, Confucian sayings, and food criticism (especially of noodles). Another superb entry in an always outstanding series.” Booklist, starred review
THE YEAR OF FEAR by Joe Urschel
“For those interested in the early years of the FBI and gangsters, this is the book to read. Just as this crime held the interest of the people on a daily basis in 1933 through the newspapers and radios, today’s readers will be completely absorbed.”
Library Journal, starred review
“This story about Depression-era gangster George ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly is as compelling and illuminating as Laura Hillenbrand’s account of Depression-era racehorse Seabiscuit. Many true-crime books claim to shine a light on their chosen eras. This one is the real deal.” Booklist, starred review
LAST RAGGED BREATH by Julia Keller
“A beautifully crafted mystery in which Keller explores love, hate, and poverty in a place of stunning natural beauty with pockets of overwhelming ugliness. The ending may leave you in tears.” Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“…this novel like its three predecessors is elevated far above the ordinary by masterful character development and a keen sense of place. With bits of her backstory still being revealed, Elkins is certainly among the best-drawn characters in crime fiction today.” Booklist, starred review
The owner of this website has made a commitment to accessibility and inclusion, please report any problems that you encounter using the contact form on this website. This site uses the WP ADA Compliance Check plugin to enhance accessibility.
