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 3457th 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 4309th 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 5579th 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 17152nd 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 17152nd 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 17152nd Greatest Book of All Time

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7. 7. Appleby Talks About Crime

   The Collected Shorter Fiction of Michael Innes

   

   In this engaging collection of stories, the astute and witty Inspector Appleby delves into a series of intriguing criminal cases, each presenting its own unique puzzle. With a sharp eye for detail and a knack for unraveling the most complex mysteries, Appleby navigates through a world of deceit, intrigue, and unexpected twists. His conversations, filled with intellectual banter and insightful observations, reveal the intricacies of human nature and the art of detection, making each tale a delightful exploration of crime and justice.

8. 8. Appleby And The Ospreys

   

   In this intriguing mystery, the astute and unflappable Inspector Appleby is called upon to investigate the peculiar death of a wealthy and reclusive art collector found dead in his own library. As Appleby delves into the eccentric world of the victim, he uncovers a tangled web of secrets, rivalries, and hidden motives among the collector's family and acquaintances. With his keen intellect and sharp wit, Appleby navigates through a series of puzzling clues and red herrings, ultimately unraveling the truth behind the enigmatic murder in a tale that blends suspense with a touch of humor.

9. 9. Sheiks And Adders

   A Sir John Appleby Mystery

   

   In this delightful mystery, the eccentric and astute Inspector Appleby finds himself embroiled in a peculiar case set against the backdrop of a prestigious English country estate. The story unfolds during a grand garden party, where a mix of aristocrats, academics, and a mysterious sheik gather, only for the festivities to be disrupted by a bizarre incident involving a snake. As Appleby navigates through a web of deception, hidden motives, and a touch of humor, he must unravel the truth behind the curious events, revealing a clever plot that challenges both his wit and deductive skills.
10. 10. Carson's Conspiracy

    A Sir John Appleby Mystery

    

    In this intriguing mystery, a seemingly straightforward case of a missing person spirals into a complex web of deceit and intrigue. The protagonist, a sharp-witted detective, is drawn into a world of high-stakes espionage and hidden agendas as he navigates through a series of unexpected twists and turns. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to unravel the very fabric of society, challenging his intellect and moral compass. With each clue, the detective must piece together the truth, racing against time to prevent a catastrophe that could have far-reaching consequences.

11. 11. Appleby And Honeybath

    A Novel of Detection

    

    In this delightful mystery, the astute and ever-curious Sir John Appleby finds himself drawn into a peculiar case when he is invited to a country house by his friend, the artist Charles Honeybath. What begins as a simple visit soon turns into a tangled web of intrigue when a valuable painting goes missing and a series of baffling events unfold. With his sharp intellect and keen eye for detail, Appleby navigates through a cast of eccentric characters and hidden motives, unraveling secrets that lead to a surprising and satisfying resolution.

12. 12. The Ampersand Papers

    

    Set in the idyllic English countryside, this mystery novel unfolds within the walls of a grand estate, where a collection of rare manuscripts becomes the focal point of intrigue and deception. As the protagonist, a curious scholar, delves into the history of these documents, he uncovers a tangled web of family secrets, hidden motives, and a long-standing feud that threatens to unravel the estate's legacy. With a blend of wit and suspense, the narrative explores themes of literary obsession, the passage of time, and the complexities of human relationships, all while maintaining a light-hearted tone.

13. 13. The Gay Phoenix

    

    In this intriguing mystery, the story unfolds around the unexpected return of a presumed-dead millionaire, Charles Povey, who reappears to reclaim his estate and fortune. His sudden reappearance raises suspicions and questions about his true identity, leading to a tangled web of deceit, greed, and family secrets. As the narrative progresses, the eccentricities of Povey and the peculiar circumstances surrounding his "resurrection" are explored, creating a captivating blend of humor and suspense. The plot thickens with a series of twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the very end.

14. 14. The Appleby File

    

    In this intriguing mystery, the astute and unflappable Inspector Appleby is drawn into a series of perplexing cases that challenge his deductive skills and keen intellect. Set against the backdrop of the British countryside and academic circles, the narrative unfolds through a collection of interconnected stories, each presenting a unique puzzle for Appleby to unravel. With a blend of wit, literary references, and a touch of the absurd, the tales explore themes of deception, human folly, and the complexities of justice, all while showcasing the inspector's remarkable ability to see through the most intricate of plots.
15. 15. The Open House

    A Detective Story

    

    Set in the idyllic English countryside, this mystery novel unfolds during a weekend gathering at a grand estate. The serene setting is disrupted when a murder occurs, throwing the guests into a whirlwind of suspicion and intrigue. As the investigation progresses, hidden motives and long-buried secrets come to light, revealing the complex web of relationships among the attendees. The story masterfully combines elements of suspense, wit, and classic detective work, leading to a surprising and satisfying conclusion.

16. 16. Appleby's Other Story

    The Curious Case of the Missing Author

    

    In this intriguing mystery, the astute and unflappable Inspector Appleby finds himself embroiled in a perplexing case that intertwines art, academia, and murder. Set against the backdrop of a prestigious university, the narrative unfolds with a blend of intellectual wit and suspense as Appleby navigates a web of deceit, eccentric characters, and hidden motives. As he delves deeper into the investigation, the inspector must unravel a series of cryptic clues and unexpected twists to uncover the truth behind a seemingly perfect crime, all while maintaining his characteristic charm and deductive prowess.

17. 17. Appleby's Answer

    A Detective Story

    

    In this intriguing mystery novel, the astute and unflappable Inspector Appleby is drawn into a perplexing case involving a peculiar manuscript and a series of baffling events at a prestigious academic institution. As he delves deeper, Appleby encounters a colorful cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motives, leading him through a labyrinth of intellectual puzzles and unexpected twists. With his keen intellect and unerring intuition, Appleby must unravel the truth behind the enigmatic occurrences and bring the culprit to justice, all while navigating the eccentricities of the academic world.

18. 18. An Awkward Lie

    An Inspector Appleby Mystery

    

    In this intriguing mystery, a seemingly routine golf game takes a sinister turn when a body is discovered in a sand trap, leading to a complex investigation filled with unexpected twists and turns. The story unfolds as the detective, known for his sharp wit and keen observational skills, delves into the lives of the club members, uncovering hidden motives and long-buried secrets. As the plot thickens, the detective must navigate a web of deceit and deception to unravel the truth behind the murder, all while maintaining his characteristic dry humor and intellectual charm.

19. 19. Death At The Chase

    

    In this intriguing mystery, Sir John Appleby, a retired detective, finds himself drawn into a perplexing case while visiting a friend in the English countryside. The peaceful setting is disrupted by the discovery of a body at the local chase, a historic hunting ground. As Appleby delves deeper into the investigation, he encounters a web of secrets, deceit, and hidden motives among the local residents. With his keen intellect and sharp intuition, Appleby navigates through the twists and turns of the case, uncovering the truth behind the murder and bringing the culprit to justice.
20. 20. Appleby At Allington

    Death at the Chase

    

    In this classic detective novel, the astute and unflappable Inspector Appleby is called to the picturesque English countryside to unravel a perplexing mystery at the stately Allington Park. Amidst the idyllic setting, a seemingly straightforward case of a missing person quickly escalates into a tangled web of deception, hidden motives, and unexpected twists. As Appleby delves deeper into the lives of the eccentric residents and their intricate relationships, he must navigate a series of clever red herrings and cryptic clues to uncover the truth behind the enigmatic disappearance, all while maintaining his characteristic wit and keen sense of justice.

21. 21. A Family Affair

    

    In this gripping mystery, the story unfolds around the peculiar circumstances surrounding the death of a wealthy patriarch, whose demise sets off a chain of events that reveal long-buried family secrets and hidden motives. As the investigation delves deeper into the family's intricate dynamics, Inspector Appleby finds himself navigating a web of deception, betrayal, and unexpected alliances. With each twist and turn, the narrative explores themes of loyalty, greed, and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their interests, culminating in a surprising and thought-provoking resolution.

22. 22. The Bloody Wood

    

    Set in the idyllic English countryside, this classic mystery unfolds during a weekend gathering at a stately manor, where the serene atmosphere is shattered by a shocking murder. As the guests grapple with the unsettling event, the astute and unflappable Inspector Appleby is called in to unravel the tangled web of secrets and motives. With his keen intellect and sharp wit, he navigates through the complex relationships and hidden tensions among the guests, ultimately revealing the unexpected truth behind the crime. The narrative is a masterful blend of suspense, humor, and intricate plotting, capturing the essence of a traditional whodunit.

23. 23. The Crabtree Affair

    An Inspector Appleby Mystery

    

    Set against the backdrop of a prestigious university, this intriguing mystery unravels the enigmatic disappearance of a renowned professor. As the investigation unfolds, a tapestry of academic rivalries, hidden secrets, and unexpected alliances comes to light. The narrative weaves through the corridors of academia, where every character harbors motives and every clue deepens the mystery. With a blend of wit and suspense, the story challenges the reader to piece together the puzzle before the final, surprising revelation.

24. 24. Silence Observed

    

    In this intriguing mystery, Inspector John Appleby finds himself embroiled in a complex case involving the theft of a valuable painting from a prestigious art gallery. As he delves deeper into the investigation, Appleby encounters a web of deceit, eccentric characters, and unexpected twists that challenge his detective skills. The narrative unfolds with a blend of wit and suspense, as Appleby navigates the art world and its secrets, ultimately leading to a surprising revelation that ties together the seemingly disparate elements of the case.
25. 25. Hare Sitting Up

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, the story unfolds around the sudden disappearance of a renowned scientist, Dr. Howard Juniper, who holds the key to a potentially devastating biological weapon. As the world teeters on the brink of a global catastrophe, Inspector Appleby is called upon to unravel the intricate web of deception and espionage surrounding the case. With time running out, Appleby must navigate through a maze of clues and red herrings, encountering a cast of eccentric characters and hidden motives, to prevent the weapon from falling into the wrong hands and avert a looming disaster.

26. 26. The Long Farewell

    

    In this intriguing mystery, a renowned detective is drawn into a complex web of deceit and danger when he is asked to investigate the disappearance of a celebrated author. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a series of cryptic clues and encounters a cast of eccentric characters, each with their own secrets and motives. The detective must navigate through layers of literary intrigue and personal vendettas, all while trying to unravel the truth behind the author's enigmatic farewell. With wit and intelligence, the story unfolds in a gripping narrative that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

27. 27. Death On A Quiet Day

    

    Set against the serene backdrop of the English countryside, this gripping mystery unfolds as a young university student, David Henchman, stumbles upon a corpse while on a solitary walk. His discovery plunges him into a web of intrigue and danger, as he becomes embroiled in a complex investigation led by the astute Inspector Appleby. As the plot thickens, David must navigate a maze of secrets, deception, and unexpected twists, all while trying to clear his name and uncover the truth behind the murder that shattered the tranquility of the quiet day.

28. 28. Appleby Talking

    A Detective Story

    

    In this delightful collection of short stories, readers are invited into the world of Sir John Appleby, a sharp-witted detective with a knack for unraveling the most perplexing mysteries. Each tale presents a unique puzzle, ranging from curious thefts to baffling murders, all set against the backdrop of quintessential British settings. With a blend of humor, intellect, and a touch of the absurd, the stories showcase the detective's keen observational skills and his ability to see beyond the obvious, making for an engaging and entertaining read.

29. 29. Appleby Talks Again

    Or, How to Survive in the Police

    

    In this engaging mystery novel, the astute and ever-curious Inspector Appleby finds himself embroiled in a series of perplexing puzzles and enigmatic conversations that challenge his deductive prowess. Set against a backdrop of intellectual banter and witty exchanges, the story unfolds with a blend of humor and intrigue as Appleby navigates through a labyrinth of clues and red herrings. With his keen eye for detail and sharp intellect, he unravels the truth behind a seemingly innocuous gathering that harbors secrets and unexpected revelations, showcasing his unparalleled ability to solve the most intricate of mysteries.
30. 30. A Private View

    

    In this engaging mystery novel, the protagonist, Sir John Appleby, a retired detective, finds himself drawn back into the world of crime-solving when he attends an art exhibition in London. The event takes a sinister turn when a valuable painting is stolen, and a murder occurs, thrusting Appleby into a web of intrigue and deception. As he navigates the art world and its eccentric characters, Appleby must unravel the clues and motives behind the crime, using his keen intellect and experience to bring the perpetrator to justice. The story is a delightful blend of wit, suspense, and the complexities of human nature.

31. 31. Operation Pax

    The Case of the Flying Bomb

    

    In this gripping mystery novel, a seemingly innocuous incident involving a stolen suitcase spirals into a complex web of intrigue and danger. The story follows a diverse cast of characters, including a resourceful detective, as they unravel a sinister plot involving a secretive organization with a chilling agenda. Set against the backdrop of post-war England, the narrative deftly weaves elements of suspense, humor, and intellectual puzzles, leading to a thrilling climax that challenges the boundaries of morality and justice.

32. 32. A Night Of Errors

    

    In this intricate and witty detective novel, the story unfolds around a series of bizarre and seemingly unrelated events that lead to a tangled web of deception and murder. Set in a grand English country house, the narrative follows the astute Inspector Appleby as he navigates through a labyrinth of family secrets, mistaken identities, and theatrical misadventures. With a keen eye for detail and a sharp wit, Appleby must untangle the chaos and uncover the truth behind the mysterious occurrences, all while maintaining his composure amidst the eccentricities of the household.

33. 33. The Weight Of The Evidence

    An Inspector Appleby Mystery

    

    In this classic detective novel, the serene atmosphere of a prestigious English university is shattered when a renowned professor is found dead under mysterious circumstances. The case is handed to the astute and unorthodox Inspector Appleby, who must navigate the intricate web of academic rivalries, hidden secrets, and intellectual egos to uncover the truth. As he delves deeper into the world of academia, Appleby encounters a cast of eccentric characters, each with their own motives and alibis, leading to a surprising and clever resolution that challenges the boundaries of logic and reason.

34. 34. The Daffodil Affair

    

    Set against the backdrop of World War II, this intriguing mystery follows Inspector Appleby as he delves into a peculiar case involving the disappearance of a horse, a house, and a young woman. The investigation takes him from the bustling streets of London to the eerie, fog-laden moors, uncovering a web of strange occurrences and eccentric characters. With a blend of wit and suspense, the story explores themes of illusion and reality, leading to a surprising and thought-provoking conclusion.
35. 35. Appleby On Ararat

    A Detective Novel

    

    In this delightful blend of mystery and comedy, a group of diverse characters find themselves stranded on a remote island after a plane crash. Among them is a detective who must unravel the peculiar circumstances surrounding a murder that occurs amidst their isolation. As the survivors navigate their new reality, they encounter a series of humorous and puzzling events that challenge their wits and camaraderie. The story unfolds with a mix of suspense and wit, as the detective works to uncover the truth in this unexpected and intriguing setting.

36. 36. There Came Both Mist And Snow

    

    Set in the atmospheric backdrop of a snow-covered English country house during the holiday season, this classic mystery unfolds as a family gathering turns sinister. The tranquility of the festive occasion is shattered when a murder occurs, prompting the arrival of the astute Inspector Appleby. As he delves into the tangled web of family secrets and hidden motives, the inspector must navigate through a maze of deceit and suspicion. With each character harboring their own secrets and the snowstorm intensifying the isolation, the tension mounts, leading to a gripping and unexpected resolution.

37. 37. The Secret Vanguard

    

    In this thrilling mystery, a seemingly ordinary train journey turns into a perilous adventure when a young woman, Sheila Grant, becomes embroiled in a dangerous espionage plot. As she unwittingly finds herself in possession of a secret document, Sheila must navigate a web of intrigue and deception, all while being pursued by mysterious agents. With the help of the astute Inspector Appleby, she races against time to uncover the truth and thwart a sinister conspiracy that threatens national security. Set against the backdrop of the picturesque British countryside, the story weaves suspense and wit into a captivating tale of courage and cunning.

38. 38. Stop Press

    A Sir John Appleby Mystery

    

    In this intriguing mystery, a renowned detective is drawn into a perplexing case involving the sudden disappearance of a prominent newspaper editor. As the investigation unfolds, a web of secrets, rivalries, and hidden motives is revealed, challenging the detective's wit and intuition. Set against the backdrop of the bustling world of journalism, the story delves into the complexities of human nature and the lengths individuals will go to protect their interests. With unexpected twists and a cast of compelling characters, the narrative keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the final revelation.

39. 39. Planning With Complexity

    An Introduction to Collaborative Rationality for Public Policy

    

    This insightful book delves into the intricate world of urban planning, emphasizing the importance of embracing complexity and uncertainty in decision-making processes. It challenges traditional linear and rational approaches, advocating for a more adaptive and collaborative framework that acknowledges the dynamic nature of urban environments. By integrating diverse perspectives and fostering inclusive dialogue, the book offers a fresh perspective on how to navigate the multifaceted challenges of modern urban development, ultimately aiming to create more resilient and sustainable communities.