Posted on November 28, 2010
I’m getting quite a few questions directed my way on ideas for books to give for Christmas – so I’ll be doing some regular posting on those days I don’t have a review ready to give you all my thoughts on the perfect Christmas books for various genre lovers. Please, feel free in the comments to request books for a certain type of person – usually I can come up with a few suggestions based off a favorite book of your recipient.
I used to be a much bigger fan of mystery than I am these days. Today, I’m a bit more picky and the mystery’s I read have to have more substance then just a lot of “bang-bang-shoot’em-up”, as my nephew, Cole, likes to call it. So with that said, here are my recommendations, and a list of some great books both new and old for you to consider giving to the mystery lover in your life.
The Likeness by Tana French
Series: Book 2 of the Rob Ryan and Cassie Maddox mysteries
Place: Dublin, Ireland
Don’t let the fact that this is book 2 convince you not to buy it. While the 1st book, In the Woods, was also fantastic, I think Tana blew the mystery genre out of the water with The Likeness. Filled with twists and turns, this is one book that will take quite a bit of effort to put down.
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The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins
Series: None
Place: England.
Yes, this is an old story – but it’s fantastic and not a book many have read. My first experience with this book had me shivering and staying up all ours of the night, aching to find out just what was going on. Combine this book along with a copy of The Moonstone and you’ll have a hit gift.
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Deal Breaker by Harlan Coben
Series: Myron Bolitar, Book 1
Place: USA
I know, I know.. this book is 15 years old, but honestly – this is one of my favorite mystery series. It is the only one I’ve managed to keep liking over the years and I love that Coben hasn’t gone the route of Stuart Woods and James Patterson with massive amounts of violence and sex. Plus, this will have you laughing your socks off.
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The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
Series: None
Place: Spain
Many times, when a book hits the best seller list, I find myself a bit wary, thinking there is no way the book could live up to the hype I inevitably give it in my own mind. This book lived up to the hype and more. You either love it or hate it and this is one I absolutely loved. Forbidden romance, gothic mystery, Spain.. how can you go wrong?
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The Distant Hours by Kate Morton
Series: None
Place: England
I got chills just remembering this book. This is not a “bang-bang” mystery, but, like Shadow of the Wind, a more gothic mystery that takes its sweet time unfolding. Filled with descriptions of a creepy castle, three bizarre sisters and a mystery between two generations this book will have your loved one snugging under a blanket and reading every opportunity they get.
