Michael Innes

Michael Innes was the pseudonym of John Innes Mackintosh Stewart, a Scottish novelist and academic. He is best known for his mystery novels featuring the character Sir John Appleby.

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. Hamlet, Revenge!

    A Sir John Appleby Mystery

    In the detective novel set within the backdrop of an amateur production of Shakespeare's "Hamlet," a murder occurs during a country house party, prompting Inspector Appleby to investigate the ensemble of guests, which includes politicians, scholars, and actors. As the inspector delves into the complex relationships and motives of the suspects, the narrative weaves through a labyrinth of intellectual puzzles and literary references. The story combines elements of a classic whodunit with a sophisticated exploration of Shakespearean themes, leading to a dramatic and unexpected resolution.

    The 3453rd Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. Death At The President's Lodging

    An Inspector Appleby Mystery

    In this classic detective novel, readers are introduced to Inspector John Appleby, who is tasked with solving a perplexing murder at an esteemed college. The victim, the president of the college, is found dead within the confines of his secure lodging, leading to a complex investigation that delves into the intricate relationships and rivalries within the academic community. As Appleby navigates through a maze of clues, secrets, and academic intrigue, the story unfolds with wit and sophistication, showcasing the detective's keen intellect and the author's masterful plotting. This book is a quintessential example of the golden age of detective fiction, blending intellectual puzzles with a richly depicted setting.

    The 4302nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. The Journeying Boy

    A Detective Story

    "The Journeying Boy" is a mystery novel that follows the peculiar adventures of Humphrey Paxton, the son of a famous physicist, as he travels to Ireland under the care of his tutor. However, the journey takes a series of unexpected turns when a mix-up at a guest house leads to a murder, drawing in an eccentric detective who must unravel a web of intrigue, espionage, and family secrets. As the plot thickens, the boy's safety is jeopardized, and the detective's skills are put to the test in a race against time to solve the case and protect young Humphrey from the dangers that surround him.

    The 5571st Greatest Book of All Time
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  4. 4. Appleby's End

    In this whimsical and satirical mystery, the protagonist, Inspector John Appleby, finds himself entangled in a series of bizarre and surreal events when he visits the peculiar village of Great Snoring. As Appleby navigates through a world filled with eccentric characters, peculiar traditions, and unexpected twists, he must unravel the mystery behind a series of strange occurrences that seem to defy logic. The narrative cleverly blends elements of comedy and intrigue, creating a captivating tale that challenges the boundaries of conventional detective fiction.

    The 17007th Greatest Book of All Time
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  5. 5. Lament For A Maker

    Set against the haunting backdrop of a Scottish winter, this gripping mystery unfolds through a series of narratives, each offering a unique perspective on the enigmatic death of the reclusive and eccentric laird, Ranald Guthrie. As the story progresses, the layers of deception, family secrets, and long-standing grudges are peeled back, revealing a complex web of motives and suspects. The tale is a masterful blend of psychological intrigue and atmospheric tension, culminating in a surprising and thought-provoking resolution that challenges the reader's perceptions of truth and justice.

    The 17007th Greatest Book of All Time
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  6. 6. The New Sonia Wayward

    A Novel of Mystery and Manners

    In this intriguing mystery, a retired army officer finds himself in a predicament when his famous novelist wife unexpectedly dies on their yacht. To avoid scandal and maintain her lucrative book contracts, he decides to conceal her death and assume her identity, continuing to write under her name. As he navigates the complexities of deception, he becomes embroiled in a web of misunderstandings, blackmail, and unexpected twists, all while trying to maintain the facade of his wife's public persona. The story unfolds with a blend of humor and suspense, exploring themes of identity, ambition, and the lengths one might go to preserve a carefully constructed life.

    The 17007th Greatest Book of All Time
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