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Whether you're hanging out in the park, at the beach or on the patio, lounging is never complete without a good book. Dive into these top mysteries and thrillers, picked out for you by VPL's reading experts.
To Die But Once by Jacqueline Winspear
Psychologist Maisie Dobbs investigates the possible disappearance of 15-year-old Joe Coombes, who was working as a painter for a military contractor. Set in London at the start of the Second World War, this historical mystery explores the dreams, hopes and dangers that emerge in war.
Macbeth by Jo Nesbø
Following the success of bestsellers such as The Snowman, Norwegian author Jo Nesbø delivers another gritty and thrilling mystery fiction. This modern retelling of Macbeth is set in a run-down industrial town during the 1970s, and is the latest story in the Hogarth Shakespeare project of Shakespeare plays adapted into novels.
The Liar in the Library by Simon Brett
Murder in the library? Oh my! This cozy, old-school mystery is the latest in Simon Brett's entertaining and engaging Fethering Mysteries series. Set in the West Sussex seaside town of Fethering, this whodunnit follows Jude Nichol – the prime suspect, who must solve the mystery and prove her innocence.
Shadow Play by Cynthia Harrod-Eagles
Sex, drugs, blackmail and real estate – this intricately plotted detective mystery feels like a fast-paced crime drama. Part of the Bill Slider series, the police detective investigates the murder of a businessman with a colourful past.
Close to Home by Cara Hunter
In this chilling and disturbing mystery, eight-year-old Daisy Mason disappears and her family falls under a cloud of suspicion. Carol Hunter's debut novel reveals a multi-layered story filled with clues, secrets and suspects.
Greeks Bearing Gifts by Philip Kerr
Working undercover as an insurance claim adjuster in Athens, Greece, private investigator Bernhard Gunther finds himself caught up in a case that involves Nazi plunder and murder. Teaming up with Lieutenant Leventis, they work to uncover a sinister truth.
A Dangerous Crossing by Ausma Zehanat Khan
This is the latest instalment in the Esa Khattak and Rachel Getty mystery series. The detectives travel to Greece, where they investigate the disappearance of Audrey Clare, who is implicated in a double murder. Clues take them far and wide across Europe, where they discover Audrey may have uncovered a dark secret that made her a target.
Force of Nature by Jane Harper
Five colleagues go on a corporate retreat and one of them goes missing. Their stories don't quite line up, and federal police agent Aaron Falk must uncover the truth. Set in the Australian wilderness, this compelling and fast-paced thriller has all the makings of a blockbuster movie.
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