Gentle Crime Reads

Sometimes called cosy crime, detective stories with a dash of humour, minimal blood and great characters, often set on an English country estate.

M.C. Beaton

Author of the much-loved Agatha Raisin and Hamish Macbeth crime fiction books.

Alan Bradley

Canadian writer known for the Flavia de Luce series, about a precocious chemistry-obsessed 11-year-old girl, set in post-World War II English villages.

Prolific author and creator of Hercule Poirot, a Belgian detective who relies on his logic to solve crimes, and English spinster Miss Marple, who utilises her feminine intuition to uncover the criminal.

Ann Granger

British author of numerous series including Mitchell & Markby mysteries, Fran Varady mysteries and Campbell & Carter mysteries.

Laurie R. King

American author best known for her detective fiction. Among her books are the Mary Russell series of historical mysteries, featuring Sherlock Holmes as her mentor and later partner.

G.M. Malliet

Author of a new series featuring the charming Max Tudor, vicar of St Edwold's and ex-MI5 agent.

Ngaio Marsh

New Zealand author of over 30 English detective novels, with a writing career spanning 1930s to 1980s.

Alexander McCall Smith

Born in Zimbabwe and author of some classic series, including No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency.

Found Something You Like?

Request an Item and we'll put it aside for you. A $2.00 fee may apply.

About These Lists

These lists are quick, pre-selected guides to specific types of stories - for when you want something new, but not too different.