Michael Dibdin

Michael Dibdin was a British author best known for his Aurelio Zen detective series, set in Italy. Born in 1947 in Wolverhampton, England, Dibdin had a diverse career that took him to several countries before he settled into writing. His work is celebrated for its intricate plots, deep character studies, and vivid portrayal of Italian settings. Dibdin's contributions to the crime genre have been recognized for their intelligence and wit, making him a notable figure in contemporary mystery and detective fiction. He passed away in 2007.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Ratking

    In this gripping crime novel, readers are introduced to a complex and moody detective, Aurelio Zen, who is tasked with solving a high-profile kidnapping case in Italy. The victim, a wealthy industrialist, is held captive by a mysterious entity known as the Ratking, a term that symbolizes the entangled and corrupt nature of the Italian elite. As Zen delves deeper into the investigation, he navigates through a labyrinth of deceit, power struggles, and family secrets, challenging his own ethics and the corrupt system he is a part of. The novel combines a richly atmospheric setting with intricate plot twists, offering a dark and sophisticated exploration of crime, society, and human nature.

    The 3063rd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. A Rich Full Death

    This novel is a thrilling mystery set in the picturesque city of Florence in the 19th century, where a series of bizarre and gruesome murders captures the attention of the local populace and authorities. The narrative intricately weaves historical figures into its fabric, notably the poet Robert Browning, who becomes an amateur detective trying to solve the case. As Browning delves deeper into the dark underbelly of Florence, he uncovers a tangled web of deceit, madness, and obsession. The story masterfully combines elements of historical fiction with the suspense and intrigue of a classic detective novel, creating a rich and atmospheric tale that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

    The 5294th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Vendetta

    This book is a gripping installment in a series that follows an Italian detective as he navigates the complex and often dangerous landscape of crime in his country. In "Vendetta," the detective is drawn into a convoluted case that begins with a seemingly straightforward investigation into a series of murders. However, as he delves deeper, he uncovers a web of vendettas that challenge his understanding of justice and morality. Set against the backdrop of Italy's picturesque yet sinister landscapes, the novel combines thrilling crime-solving with a deep exploration of the personal and professional dilemmas faced by the protagonist.

    The 5630th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Dirty Tricks

    This book is a darkly comic thriller that delves into the life of a disillusioned English teacher living in Oxford. The protagonist finds himself embroiled in a web of deceit, adultery, and murder after becoming involved with the wife of a colleague. As events spiral out of control, the narrative takes readers on a twisted journey through the underbelly of academic life, exposing the petty vendettas and moral ambiguities of its characters. With sharp wit and a keen eye for the absurdities of human behavior, the story masterfully blends suspense with biting humor, revealing the darkly manipulative tactics people employ to achieve their desires.

    The 5688th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Dead Lagoon

    In "Dead Lagoon," readers are taken on a suspenseful journey through the atmospheric and enigmatic city of Venice. The narrative follows a detective who returns to his hometown to investigate a missing person case, only to find himself entangled in a web of secrets, corruption, and murder that challenges his perceptions of the past and forces him to confront the dark underbelly of the city he once knew. As the investigation deepens, the detective must navigate through the labyrinthine canals and alleys of Venice, unraveling a complex mystery that draws him into the heart of the city's darkest mysteries. This gripping tale combines a richly detailed setting with a complex plot of intrigue and betrayal, making it a compelling read for fans of crime and detective fiction.

    The 6068th Greatest Book of All Time