~Post by MysteryPeople Crime Fiction Coordinator Scott M.
Many of the people I meet on the floor this time of year are looking for a series of books to give as a gift, this way they can either give more than one book at a time or know exactly where to go when that person’s birthday or another holiday rolls around. Here are some of my favorite suggestions (I’m assuming most are familiar with Craig Johnson’s Walt Longmire series; if not, start there):
1. The Spellman Files by Lisa Lutz – This series is for anyone who likes to laugh while solving the crime. Isabelle Spellman not only has to contend with her cases, but also her family – she works for them in their investigation firm. A fast paced and funny series. The first book in the series is The Spellman Files
2. The Crispin Guest Series by Jeri Westerman – Disgraced knight Crispin Guest works as a “tracker” on the mean streets of 14th century London. Pure fun for the historical or hard boiled mystery fan. The first book is Veil Of Lies.
3. Maisie Dobbs Series by Jacqueline Winspear – Maisie is a feisty independent sleuth in 1920s London. This series is incredibly popular, and great for those who have gone through all their Agatha Christie. The first book in the series is Maisie Dobbs.
4. Angel Dare Books by Christa Faust – Can you get more pulp than an ex-porn star with a gun? Faust makes tawdry an art form. Also, the books have some of the coolest covers printed today. The first book is Money Shot.
5. The Charlie Fox Series by Ian Rankin – Charlie Fox is an investigator with a lot of baggage who works in the Edinburgh version of Internal Affairs in these moody mysteries. Even die-hard fans of Rankin’s Rebus character love Charlie Fox. The first book is The Complaints.
6. Sueno-Bascome Series by Martin Limon – This is a well-plotted look at foreign and military life with two Army CID cops in ’70s Korea. My dad, a former MP, devours these books. The first book is Jade Lady Burning (available right now at a special anniversary price)
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