Ellen Hart is a respected author known for her engaging mystery novels. Her Jane Lawless series, including titles like Hallowed Murder and The Old Deep and Dark, are favorites among crime fiction readers for their clever plots and memorable characters.
If you enjoy reading books by Ellen Hart then you might also like the following authors:
Val McDermid writes crime fiction with intense psychological insight. Her plots are detailed, suspenseful, and often explore dark corners of society. In The Mermaids Singing, she introduces readers to criminal profiler Tony Hill, who works to unravel brutal murders.
McDermid's stories are ideal if you're fascinated by psychological depth and intricate mysteries.
Katherine V. Forrest is known for her groundbreaking lesbian detective fiction featuring engaging and authentic characters. Her mysteries frequently explore LGBTQ+ themes in thoughtful and suspenseful narratives.
Amateur City, the first book in her Kate Delafield series, introduces readers to a detective grappling with personal identity and professional duty as she investigates a complex murder. Readers who enjoy compelling characters and thoughtful themes will appreciate Forrest's work.
Joseph Hansen's mysteries feature Dave Brandstetter, one of fiction's earliest openly gay detectives. Hansen's style is straightforward and elegantly written, and he tackles social issues sensitively and realistically.
His novel Fadeout has Brandstetter looking into the supposed death of a prominent radio personality, revealing layers of prejudice and secrecy. Hansen's books are a wonderful choice if you like finely crafted mysteries combined with thoughtful social commentary.
Louise Penny writes beautifully atmospheric mysteries set in the cozy yet surprisingly complex village of Three Pines. Her stories focus on human connections, morality, and the darker aspects that hide beneath ordinary lives.
In her novel Still Life, Inspector Armand Gamache investigates a suspicious death, uncovering both tragedy and warmth in a tightly woven community. If you enjoy gentle character exploration combined with intriguing mysteries, you'll love Penny.
Ann Cleeves offers captivating mysteries that are character-driven and intricately plotted. Her settings, often remote and richly described, add significantly to her narratives.
Her book Raven Black begins the gripping Shetland series, with detective Jimmy Perez investigating a chilling murder that opens doors to painful secrets. For readers who value intriguing suspense and deep character portrayals, Ann Cleeves is an excellent author to try.
Deborah Crombie creates atmospheric mysteries set in England, drawing readers into rich, detailed settings and complex characters. Her novels often focus on the personal and professional lives of detectives Duncan Kincaid and Gemma James as they solve intricate cases.
A great example is A Share in Death, the first novel in her long-running series, where readers get to know these investigators as they unravel dark secrets in an English countryside vacation spot.
Elizabeth George is known for carefully plotted crime novels that explore the psychology and relationships of her characters as deeply as the mystery itself. Her Inspector Lynley series is filled with detailed character studies and themes of class conflict and personal trauma.
In A Great Deliverance, the first book featuring Inspector Thomas Lynley and Detective Sergeant Barbara Havers, George masterfully introduces readers to her insightful, emotionally layered storytelling style.
J.M. Redmann offers readers intriguing lesbian mysteries featuring strong female characters, centered in vivid and authentic New Orleans settings.
Her detective, Micky Knight, faces tough cases that often highlight important social issues, mixing dark crime fiction with genuine emotional depth.
Death by the Riverside, the first in the Micky Knight series, showcases Redmann's talent for storytelling, complex plots, and candid exploration of personal relationships.
Claire McNab writes engaging mysteries featuring tough, smart female protagonists who balance challenging detective work with personal lives and relationships.
Set mostly in Australia, her novels often explore themes of justice, identity, and the complexities of modern lesbian life.
Readers looking for a satisfying entry into her work may enjoy Lessons in Murder, the first installment featuring Detective Carol Ashton, known for her intelligence, dedication, and compelling personality.
Gerri Hill creates mysteries that blend romantic and suspenseful elements, often highlighting well-drawn lesbian protagonists dealing with complex emotional relationships and challenging investigations.
Her novels are known for their smooth pacing, vivid characters, and scenic settings that enhance the suspense. A notable work to start with is Hunter's Way, which introduces readers to Detective Tori Hunter, offering thrills, romance, and a well-crafted investigation.
Rhys Bowen writes cozy historical mysteries filled with lively characters and engaging plots. Her style blends warmth and humor, immersing readers in vivid historical settings.
Readers who enjoy Ellen Hart's intricate mysteries and compelling female protagonists will likely appreciate Bowen's series featuring Lady Georgiana Rannoch in books such as Her Royal Spyness.
Donna Leon creates thoughtful crime novels set in contemporary Venice, featuring Commissario Guido Brunetti. Like Ellen Hart, Leon explores complex social issues and incorporates subtle character development.
Her novel Death at La Fenice, the first in the series, introduces readers to richly drawn characters, atmospheric settings, and intelligent detective work.
Elly Griffiths crafts engaging mysteries with a strong sense of place and intriguing characters. Her Ruth Galloway series combines suspenseful storytelling with archaeological intrigue, making it a treat for readers who favor Ellen Hart’s well-rounded, intelligent protagonists.
Begin with The Crossing Places, a novel that showcases Griffiths’ unique blend of mystery and historical depth.
Patricia Highsmith is best known for psychological suspense that delves into the darker aspects of human nature. Her detailed character studies and layered narratives appeal to readers who enjoy Ellen Hart's nuanced storytelling and deeper character explorations.
The Talented Mr. Ripley is one of Highsmith’s most celebrated works, a chilling psychological thriller that remains impactful.
Mari Hannah's writing features gripping police procedurals, appealing characters, and plenty of emotional depth. Fans of Ellen Hart who like detailed investigative plots and strong, relatable characters will find much to enjoy in Hannah's novels.
The first of her Kate Daniels series, The Murder Wall, introduces readers to a smart, dedicated detective tackling challenging cases in Northern England.