Francis Iles

Francis Iles is a pseudonym of Anthony Berkeley Cox, a British crime writer and critic. He is known for his innovative and influential works in the genre of detective fiction, including 'Malice Aforethought' and 'Before the Fact'.

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. Malice Aforethought

    A Study of the Mind of a Criminal
    Cover of 'Malice Aforethought' by Francis Iles

    In this pioneering psychological thriller, the reader is immediately introduced to a respected English doctor who has grown to despise his domineering wife. With cold calculation, he meticulously plans her murder, believing he can execute the perfect crime. However, as his scheme unfolds, a series of unexpected events and the doctor's own hubris lead to complications. The narrative delves into the mind of the would-be murderer, exploring themes of morality, deception, and the flawed nature of human reasoning, all while building towards a climax that questions whether true justice can ever be achieved in the face of premeditated evil.

    The 916th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. Before The Fact

    Cover of 'Before The Fact' by Francis Iles

    Set in the early 20th century, this psychological thriller delves into the mind of a woman who becomes increasingly aware of her husband's sinister intentions. As she navigates the complexities of her marriage, she grapples with her own insecurities and the chilling realization that her charming spouse may be plotting her demise. The narrative unfolds with a tense and suspenseful atmosphere, exploring themes of manipulation, trust, and the dark undercurrents of human relationships.

    The 14897th Greatest Book of All Time
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