Sue Grafton
Sue Grafton was an American author of detective novels. She is best known for her 'alphabet series' featuring private investigator Kinsey Millhone in the fictional city of Santa Teresa, California. The series begins with 'A' Is for Alibi and continued through 'Y' Is for Yesterday, with the final book, 'Z' Is for Zero, never being written due to her death.
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. A Is For Alibi
In this gripping detective novel, a female private investigator takes on a complex case involving the murder of a prominent divorce lawyer, eight years after the crime. Hired by the convicted wife, who insists on her innocence, the investigator delves into a tangled web of deceit, adultery, and hidden motives. As she uncovers the secrets of the victim's personal and professional life, she must also navigate the dangers that arise when the trail leads her to confront the real murderer, who is determined to remain in the shadows. With sharp wit and keen observation, the protagonist works to solve the puzzle, one letter of the alphabet at a time.
The 7616th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
2. G Is For Gumshoe
In this installment of a detective series, the tenacious female private investigator celebrates her 33rd birthday by not only upgrading her living situation but also by unwittingly putting herself in the crosshairs of a hitman. As she navigates the complexities of her latest case, involving a frail elderly woman seeking to uncover the mysterious past of her long-lost son, the detective must simultaneously dodge the lethal intentions of the assassin. Her investigative skills are put to the test as she delves into a web of deceit and danger, with the added challenge of staying alive while outsmarting those who wish her harm.
The 12230th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
3. P Is For Peril
This novel is a thrilling addition to a mystery series that follows the adventures of a female private investigator. In this installment, she is hired to solve the perplexing disappearance of a prominent doctor who vanished without a trace from his upscale community. As she delves deeper into the case, she uncovers a web of deceit, betrayal, and danger that puts her own life at risk. The investigation leads her through the shadowy realms of medical fraud and into the heart of a complex mystery that challenges her skills and determination. With a keen eye for detail and a relentless pursuit of justice, the protagonist navigates through perilous twists and turns in her quest to uncover the truth.
The 17010th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
4. I Is For Innocent
In this mystery novel, private investigator Kinsey Millhone takes over a case from a deceased colleague, delving into the unsolved murder of Isabelle Barney. As she navigates through a web of deceit and hidden motives, Kinsey uncovers secrets that challenge her perceptions and put her own life at risk. The investigation leads her through a complex array of suspects, each with their own potential motives, ultimately revealing the unexpected truth behind the crime. Throughout the story, Kinsey's determination and keen instincts drive her pursuit of justice in a world where innocence is elusive.
-
5. H Is For Homicide
In this mystery novel, private investigator Kinsey Millhone is drawn into a dangerous undercover operation after the suspicious death of an insurance claims adjuster. Tasked with infiltrating a fraudulent insurance scam, Kinsey assumes a false identity and navigates a perilous world of deception and crime. As she delves deeper into the case, she encounters a cast of intriguing characters, including a charismatic con artist and his unpredictable accomplice. The tension escalates as Kinsey races against time to gather evidence and stay one step ahead of those who would do anything to protect their illicit operation.
-
6. F Is For Fugitive
In this mystery novel, private investigator Kinsey Millhone is hired to clear the name of Bailey Fowler, who was convicted of murdering a young woman named Jean Timberlake seventeen years ago. As Kinsey delves into the case, she uncovers a web of secrets and lies in the small town of Floral Beach, where the past and present collide. Her investigation reveals hidden motives and unexpected connections among the townspeople, leading her to question who can truly be trusted. As Kinsey gets closer to the truth, she faces increasing danger, ultimately unraveling a complex mystery that challenges her skills and determination.
-
7. E Is For Evidence
In this mystery novel, private investigator Kinsey Millhone finds herself embroiled in a complex case when she is accused of insurance fraud. As she delves deeper into the investigation to clear her name, Kinsey uncovers a web of deceit and betrayal involving her former colleagues and a powerful family with dark secrets. The story unfolds with suspense and unexpected twists, as Kinsey races against time to unravel the truth and protect her reputation, all while navigating personal challenges and dangerous adversaries.
-
8. D Is For Deadbeat
In this mystery novel, private investigator Kinsey Millhone is hired by a man named Alvin Limardo to deliver a $25,000 check to a teenager named Tony Gahan. However, Kinsey soon discovers that Limardo is actually a con artist named John Daggett, and the check bounces. As she delves deeper into Daggett's past, Kinsey uncovers a web of deceit, betrayal, and murder. Her investigation leads her through a series of twists and turns, ultimately revealing the dark secrets and hidden motives of those involved, while Kinsey navigates the dangerous waters of deception and justice.
-
9. C Is For Corpse
In this mystery novel, private investigator Kinsey Millhone is hired by a young man named Bobby Callahan, who survived a car accident that left him with partial amnesia and killed his friend. Bobby believes the crash was an attempt on his life and enlists Kinsey's help to uncover the truth. As she delves into Bobby's past, Kinsey encounters a web of secrets, deceit, and danger, leading her to a chilling discovery that puts her own life at risk. The story unfolds with suspense and intrigue as Kinsey races against time to solve the case before the killer strikes again.
-
10. B Is For Burglar
In this mystery novel, private investigator Kinsey Millhone is hired to locate a missing woman named Elaine Boldt, who has seemingly vanished without a trace. As Kinsey delves deeper into the case, she uncovers a web of deceit, identity theft, and murder that stretches from California to Florida. Her investigation reveals unexpected connections and dangerous secrets, leading her to confront a cunning adversary. With her sharp instincts and determination, Kinsey navigates the twists and turns of the case, ultimately unraveling the truth behind Elaine's disappearance.
-
11. S Is For Silence
In this gripping mystery, private investigator Kinsey Millhone is hired to solve a decades-old cold case involving the mysterious disappearance of Violet Sullivan, a vivacious woman who vanished on the Fourth of July in 1953. As Kinsey delves into the past, she uncovers a web of secrets, lies, and betrayals in the small town of Serena Station. With each clue, she pieces together the events leading up to Violet's disappearance, revealing the hidden truths that have haunted the town for years. The investigation takes unexpected twists and turns, challenging Kinsey's detective skills and leading her to a shocking conclusion.
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
12. Q Is For Quarry
In this gripping mystery, a private investigator teams up with two retired detectives to solve a decades-old cold case involving the unidentified remains of a young woman found in a quarry. As they delve into the past, they uncover a tangled web of secrets, lies, and hidden identities, all while confronting their own personal demons. The investigation takes them on a journey through small-town dynamics and forgotten histories, ultimately leading to a shocking revelation that challenges their perceptions of justice and truth.
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
13. Writing Mysteries
A Handbook by the Mystery Writers of America
This insightful guide delves into the art and craft of writing mystery novels, offering aspiring authors a wealth of practical advice and inspiration. It features contributions from seasoned mystery writers who share their expertise on various aspects of the genre, including plotting, character development, and creating suspense. The book also explores the intricacies of crafting compelling narratives that captivate readers, while providing a glimpse into the personal experiences and challenges faced by successful mystery authors. With its blend of practical tips and engaging anecdotes, this resource serves as an invaluable tool for anyone looking to master the mystery writing craft.
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
15. Magus
-
16. V Is For Vengeance
A tough, private investigator in 1980s California takes on what seems like a routine assignment and soon finds herself entangled in a web of secrets, deceit and escalating violence; as she follows leads through a maze of lies, she uncovers long-buried grudges and calculated retribution that threaten innocent lives and forces her to confront the limits of justice and her own resilience.
Purchase from Bookshop.org