In the realm of best recent crime and thrillers, a slew of new releases promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats. From psychological suspense to gritty detective tales, this review roundup highlights the standout titles that have captivated critics and audiences alike.
Ian Rankin's The Heights: A Towering Thriller
Ian Rankin, renowned for his Rebus series, returns with his first standalone thriller in almost two decades. The Heights is set in a luxury tower block overlooking London's Hyde Park, a potent symbol of hyper-gentrification and the widening wealth gap. The story centers on DS Gillian Gish as she investigates the suspicious death of night-shift security guard Dwayne Hogarth. The wealthy residents, including a young singer, a gangster's wife, and a Russian oligarch, are uncooperative, and the developer is facing financial ruin. As secrets unravel, a second corpse emerges. Rankin's storytelling prowess shines, and DS Gish, more relatable than Rebus, is a welcome addition to his oeuvre.
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Why The Heights Stands Out
- Timely themes: Explores gentrification and social inequality.
- Complex characters: DS Gish is a refreshing protagonist.
- Masterful plotting: Rankin's signature twists and turns.
The Mortons: A Darkly Comic Family Saga
Scott Westerfeld and Justine Larbalestier team up for The Mortons, a tale that blends the macabre humor of The Sopranos with the eerie charm of Wednesday Addams. The Morton family's business is murder, blackmail, and financial fraud. Jessica, the family's great hope, embodies their ethos: "Give your child a strong hand, a sharp knife, and a big family, then teach them..." This darkly comedic thriller offers a fresh take on the crime genre, with a dysfunctional family at its core.
Key Takeaways from The Mortons
- Unique blend: Crime fiction meets dark comedy.
- Strong female lead: Jessica is a force to be reckoned with.
- Satirical edge: Critiques wealth and power.
Comparison of Recent Crime Thrillers
| Title | Author(s) | Subgenre | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Heights | Ian Rankin | Police Procedural | Social commentary on gentrification |
| The Mortons | Scott Westerfeld & Justine Larbalestier | Dark Comedy Thriller | Dysfunctional family dynamics |
Other Notable Releases
Beyond these two, several other crime and thriller novels have made waves. The Last Thing to Burn by Will Dean offers a harrowing tale of captivity, while The Sanatorium by Sarah Pearse delivers a chilling locked-room mystery. Each brings a unique voice to the genre, ensuring that fans of crime fiction have plenty to choose from.
FAQ
What is the best recent crime thriller?
While opinions vary, Ian Rankin's The Heights is widely praised for its timely themes and compelling protagonist. Scott Westerfeld and Justine Larbalestier's The Mortons is also a standout for its unique blend of crime and dark comedy.
Who is DS Gillian Gish?
DS Gillian Gish is the protagonist in Ian Rankin's The Heights. She is a detective sergeant investigating a murder in a luxury London tower block. Rankin has hinted that she may feature in future novels.
What makes The Mortons different from other crime novels?
The Mortons stands out for its darkly comedic tone and its focus on a family whose business is crime. It combines elements of satire, family drama, and thriller, making it a unique read in the genre.
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