If you enjoy reading novels by Arthur Upfield then you might also like the following authors:
Tony Hillerman wrote stories focused on Navajo culture and the American Southwest. His mysteries have a unique sense of place and culture that might remind you of Arthur Upfield’s work.
Books like “The Blessing Way” and “Dance Hall of the Dead” feature Navajo Tribal Police detectives Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee, who often work through cases that combine modern crime and traditional beliefs.
These novels carry a strong feel of connection to the land and its people.
Nevada Barr is known for her thrilling mystery series set in national parks. Her novel “Track of the Cat” introduces readers to Anna Pigeon, a park ranger who solves crimes while navigating the wilderness.
In “A Superior Death,” Anna investigates a murder in the depths of Lake Superior. Another standout is “Firestorm,” where Anna faces danger in a remote forest during wildfire season. Barr’s stories combine suspense and beautiful outdoor settings.
Colin Cotterill creates stories with a unique charm. Fans of Arthur Upfield might enjoy Cotterill’s “The Coroner’s Lunch” and “Thirty-Three Teeth.” These novels follow Dr. Siri Paiboun, a coroner in 1970s Laos, as he solves mysteries in settings rich with local culture.
Cotterill’s work blends mystery with fascinating characters, offering an experience that feels grounded but intriguing.
Peter May is known for writing stories that pull readers in with vivid settings and strong characters. “The Lewis Man” is set in the Scottish Hebrides and weaves a tale of family secrets.
Another novel, “Entry Island,” explores connections across time and place in a murder investigation. His work often draws readers to remote landscapes and layered mysteries.
Craig Johnson writes stories that mix mystery and a sense of place. Fans of Arthur Upfield’s Inspector Napoleon Bonaparte might enjoy Johnson’s books featuring Sheriff Walt Longmire. In “The Cold Dish,” Longmire deals with a decades-old crime and a thirst for justice.
“Death Without Company” explores secrets buried in a small Wyoming town. His work focuses on people and the land, with characters who feel real and landscapes that almost breathe.
Kerry Greenwood is known for her engaging mystery novels. “Cocaine Blues” introduces readers to the fearless and fashionable Phryne Fisher, an amateur detective in 1920s Melbourne.
Another standout is “Earthly Delights,” which follows Corinna Chapman, a baker who stumbles into unexpected mysteries while managing her bakery. Both series showcase Greenwood’s knack for crafting smart, entertaining stories.
James D. Doss wrote stories that mix mystery with the culture and traditions of Native Americans. His novels often follow Charlie Moon, a Ute tribal investigator with a sharp mind and dry humor.
If you enjoy the unique settings and cultural insights in Arthur Upfield’s works, you might like “The Shaman Sings” or “The Night Visitor.” These books weave together suspense, wit, and glimpses into the supernatural.
Doss’s storytelling feels grounded while offering layers of intrigue.
Anne Hillerman continues the mystery series started by her father, Tony Hillerman. Her books carry forward the adventures of Navajo police officers Jim Chee and Joe Leaphorn, with a spotlight on Bernadette Manuelito, a strong and resourceful character.
Some of her well-known novels include “Spider Woman’s Daughter” and “Rock With Wings.” These stories blend mystery with a rich sense of place, set in the American Southwest.
Elly Griffiths creates stories with a strong sense of place and unique investigators. If you enjoy Arthur Upfield’s focus on landscape and culture, you might appreciate her books too.
In “The Crossing Places,” archaeologist Ruth Galloway uncovers ancient secrets while solving modern mysteries. “The Janus Stone” continues her work, with ties between the past and present adding layers to the plot.
Her work gives you that mix of crime and connection to the natural world.
Sue Grafton is best known for her series of mysteries featuring private investigator Kinsey Millhone. Her books often have a letter of the alphabet in the title, starting with “A is for Alibi” and continuing with others like “B is for Burglar.”
Another popular one is “C is for Corpse.” Her stories are full of interesting characters and clever twists, set against a California backdrop.
Patricia Highsmith wrote stories that explore dark motives and strange human behavior. Her novel “Strangers on a Train” is about two strangers who meet and agree to swap murders, leading to unexpected consequences.
In “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” she introduces Tom Ripley, a charming yet ruthless character who manipulates his way into someone else’s life. Her books often focus on moral ambiguity, making them unique in their approach to crime.
John D. MacDonald wrote stories that often dive into crime and human nature. His novel “The Deep Blue Good-by” introduced Travis McGee, a laid-back investigator with his own moral code.
Another popular work, “A Key to the Suite,” explores ambition and betrayal in the corporate world. His books are known for sharp dialogue and characters who feel real and flawed.
Garry Disher tells stories that capture the vast, rugged landscapes of Australia, similar to the way Arthur Upfield does. His books often explore people and places that feel raw and genuine.
If you enjoy Upfield’s work, you might like Disher’s “Bitter Wash Road,” which follows a cop dealing with crime in a remote town. Another one worth checking out is “Under the Cold Bright Lights,” where an ex-detective uncovers secrets buried in rural communities.
Both books highlight the harsh realities of isolated areas and the people who navigate them.
Adrian Hyland is known for his engaging stories set in Australia. His novel “Diamond Dove” introduces Emily Tempest, a sharp and determined amateur sleuth. Another standout, “Gunshot Road,” continues Emily’s adventures, exploring life in Australia’s outback.
His work often captures the harsh beauty of the landscape and the complexities of its people.
Michael Robotham tells stories with sharp characters and great attention to detail, which might appeal if you enjoy Arthur Upfield’s work. His novel “The Suspect” introduces clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin in a tense, layered mystery.
In “Shatter,” Joe faces psychological warfare from a sinister foe. Robotham creates settings and situations that pull readers in without needing overcomplication.