If you enjoy reading books by Georges Simenon then you might also like the following authors:
Raymond Chandler is known for his hardboiled detective fiction. He created Philip Marlowe, a private investigator in Los Angeles. One of his books, “The Big Sleep,” opens with Marlowe taking on a case for a wealthy family.
He starts with what seems like a routine blackmail issue but gets tangled in a web of crime and corruption. The story has sharp dialogue, shady characters, and a moody atmosphere.
Chandler’s writing gives Los Angeles a gritty yet vivid life, drawing readers into a world where every decision feels dangerous.
Often crowned the “Queen of Mystery,” Agatha Christie’s books often feature intricate plots and memorable detectives like Hercule Poirot. Her masterful storytelling and ability to craft suspenseful narratives are qualities Simenon fans are likely to appreciate.
Known for “The Maltese Falcon” and “The Thin Man,” Hammett’s writing offers sharp dialogues and a gritty realism. His works, like Simenon’s, are known for their noir sensibilities and richly detailed atmospheres.
Rendell’s psychological thrillers and detective novels, particularly those featuring Inspector Wexford, offer a deep dive into human nature and motives, similar to Simenon’s approach to character development.
Known for his Kurt Wallander series, Mankell’s work is steeped in mood and offers complex characters set against the backdrop of Scandinavian landscapes, providing a similar atmospheric experience to Simenon’s settings.
Patricia Highsmith was an American author known for her psychological thrillers. One of her most famous books, “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” introduces Tom Ripley, a young man hired to bring a rich acquaintance back home from Italy.
Instead, Tom becomes fascinated by the man’s lavish lifestyle and plots to take it for himself. As events unfold, Tom’s actions grow darker, drawing readers into a story of lies, ambition, and murder.
The book combines charm with a creeping sense of unease, and Tom’s morally complex character stays with you long after you finish the story.
Creator of the Inspector Montalbano series, Camilleri blends intricate plots with humor and evocative Sicilian settings. His focus on the human aspects of crime and investigation resonates with Simenon’s work.
Known for her Commissario Brunetti series, Leon provides rich depictions of Venice alongside intriguing mysteries, drawing readers into her world in a manner similar to how Simenon captured Paris with Maigret.
Dexter’s Inspector Morse series is renowned for its clever plots and complex, often introspective protagonist. Fans of Simenon will enjoy the intellectual puzzles and cultural richness of Dexter’s Oxford settings.
Although not strictly a mystery author, Perec shares Simenon’s French background and writes with a focus on intricate structures and explorations of everyday life.
His novel “Life: A User’s Manual” offers a labyrinthine narrative that mystery fans might find compelling.
Cain’s novels, such as “The Postman Always Rings Twice,” often depict ordinary people drawn into crime, similar to the psychological complexity found in Simenon’s romans durs.
Author of the Lewis Trilogy, May creates atmospheric and richly detailed settings, often with a deep sense of place, much like Simenon. His mysteries are character-driven and immerse readers in the emotional lives of his protagonists.
Tana French’s Dublin Murder Squad series features richly drawn characters and psychological depth. The way she weaves complex interpersonal relationships with gripping plots mirrors Simenon’s storytelling techniques.
While primarily known for her philosophical works and novels exploring existential themes, de Beauvoir’s narrative depth and exploration of human motives can appeal to readers interested in the philosophical underpinnings of Simenon’s mysteries.
James is celebrated for her intricate plots and well-developed characters in the Adam Dalgliesh series. Her writing shares a commitment to understanding moral complexities, aligning well with the introspective elements of Simenon’s work.