Dorothy B. Hughes

Dorothy B. Hughes was an American crime writer and literary critic, best known for her hardboiled detective novels. She made significant contributions to the genre and was highly regarded for her psychological insight and complex characters.

Books

Ranked Books All 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. In A Lonely Place

    Cover of 'In A Lonely Place' by Dorothy B. Hughes

    Set in post-World War II Los Angeles, "In A Lonely Place" follows the story of Dix Steele, a former fighter pilot turned Hollywood screenwriter. Dix becomes a prime suspect in a series of brutal murders plaguing the city. As the investigation unfolds, the novel delves into the dark depths of Dix's psyche, exploring themes of love, obsession, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. With its gripping narrative and psychological tension, "In A Lonely Place" offers a chilling portrayal of a disturbed mind and the destructive power of loneliness.

    The 1182nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. The So Blue Marble

    Cover of 'The So Blue Marble' by Dorothy B. Hughes

    In a whirlwind of suspense and intrigue, the story unfolds in the bustling streets of New York City, where a seemingly ordinary woman, Griselda Satterlee, finds herself entangled in a web of danger and deception. As she navigates the complexities of her life, she encounters the chilling twins, David and Danny Montefierrow, whose sinister intentions threaten her very existence. With a mysterious blue marble at the heart of the chaos, Griselda must unravel the secrets that bind her to these enigmatic figures, all while confronting the shadows of her own past. The narrative weaves a gripping tale of mystery, danger, and unexpected alliances, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

    The 17010th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. The Expendable Man

    Cover of 'The Expendable Man' by Dorothy B. Hughes

    Set against the backdrop of 1960s America, this gripping psychological thriller follows a young doctor, Hugh Densmore, as he embarks on a journey from Los Angeles to Phoenix for a family wedding. Along the way, he reluctantly picks up a teenage hitchhiker, Iris, whose sudden disappearance and subsequent murder embroil him in a web of suspicion and racial tension. As Hugh struggles to prove his innocence, he confronts the harsh realities of prejudice and the fragility of reputation, all while navigating a society rife with hidden biases and systemic injustice. The narrative masterfully explores themes of identity, morality, and the pervasive impact of societal perceptions.

    The 17010th Greatest Book of All Time
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