Reviews+

Author Leslie S. Klinger’s introduction and notes for this latest Library of Congress Crime Classic note that Waugh (1930–2008) wrote this first acclaimed police procedural, basing it on true crime cases and TV’s Dragnet. The methodical story follows the police investigation step by step. Students of the mystery genre will want to read this title, originally published in 1952, which appears on the Mystery Writers of America list of 100 Best Mysteries of All Time.

Readers who like classic hard-boiled mysteries with a dash of humor will thoroughly enjoy this rollicking, well-plotted work. Fans of Sue Grafton’s writings will read this and appreciate that she came by her talents honestly.

The third “Simon Westow” mystery, following The House Girl, is for readers who appreciate realistic historical atmosphere and details of the sometimes grim life in a 19th-century factory town. Fans of Jeri Westerson’s “Crispin Guest” series will appreciate the mystery and ambiance.

A simultaneously disheartening and uplifting journey for readers interested in social justice, racial politics, and current events.

This satisfying conclusion to Hibbert’s “Brown Sisters” trilogy provides a happily ever after for the third Brown sister. Through Jacob and Eve, both characters on the autism spectrum, Hibbert explores themes of self-discovery and belonging with her trademark humor and sensitivity, providing plenty of heat as her characters begin to understand each other.

Hepworth’s latest (after The Mother-in-Law) is written from one sister’s perspective with the other’s thoughts in diary form. It’s a warped tale of twisted memories and skewed perceptions that will make fans of psychological thrillers say, “Wow, I didn’t see that coming.”

A unique blend of memoir and social history that should have broad appeal to anyone who has breasts or has ever worn a bra.

With this heartfelt account, Mbolela succeeds in humanizing often-forgotten people trying to live a more fruitful and safe existence. A welcome memoir.

A must read. This is one of the rare books that is so well crafted, the narrative(s) flow so effortlessly, that you only feel the power of the story and don’t realize the complex structure underneath.