Susan Dunlap is an accomplished mystery author known for her engaging detective novels. Her popular titles include Karma and A Dinner to Die For, which showcase her talent for intriguing plots and rich characters.
If you enjoy reading books by Susan Dunlap then you might also like the following authors:
Marcia Muller writes detective novels featuring strong, independent female characters, often set against a vividly described San Francisco backdrop.
Fans of Susan Dunlap's smart, resourceful heroines might enjoy Muller's investigator Sharon McCone, who shares similar intuitive skills, cleverness, and determination.
A good place to begin is Edwin of the Iron Shoes, the first Sharon McCone mystery, which provides engaging detective work and atmospheric storytelling.
Sue Grafton provides readers with engaging, witty detective stories built around a likable and fiercely independent private investigator.
If you enjoy Dunlap's detailed characterizations and careful plotting, Grafton's alphabetically titled mysteries starring Kinsey Millhone are a perfect fit. Start with A is for Alibi, a novel that introduces Kinsey's gritty charm and no-nonsense approach to detective work.
Sara Paretsky's mysteries feature the outspoken and determined private investigator V.I. Warshawski, navigating the complexities of urban life and societal issues.
If you appreciate Dunlap's ability to weave social commentary into engaging detective plots, you might enjoy Paretsky's gritty Chicago-based novels. Try Indemnity Only, the first Warshawski novel, to see her strong-willed, quick-thinking style in action.
Linda Barnes' mysteries center around Boston-based private investigator Carlotta Carlyle. Carlyle approaches cases with humor, street smarts, and toughness—a combination that Susan Dunlap readers would likely find appealing.
Barnes’ enjoyable blend of character development and intriguing mysteries shines in A Trouble of Fools, the first Carlotta Carlyle story.
Nevada Barr sets her compelling mysteries in America's national parks, starring National Park Service ranger Anna Pigeon. Barr's richly atmospheric and suspenseful stories will appeal to readers who appreciate Dunlap's vivid settings and strong female protagonists.
You can start with Track of the Cat, an engaging entry into Barr’s mystery series filled with outdoor adventure and detective intrigue.
If you enjoy Susan Dunlap's engaging mysteries, you might like J.A. Jance. Her novels combine compelling characters with intricate crime-solving plots, often set against vividly described locations in the Southwest.
One of her most popular books, Desert Heat, introduces Joanna Brady, a determined sheriff balancing personal challenges with her duties as an investigator.
Fans of Susan Dunlap's detailed police procedurals may appreciate Faye Kellerman's style. Kellerman mixes in-depth crime investigations with thoughtful depictions of family life and religious traditions, especially Jewish culture.
Her popular novel, The Ritual Bath, features LAPD detective Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus, immersing readers in an intriguing murder mystery blended with insights into Orthodox customs.
If you like Susan Dunlap's approachable characters and engaging small-town settings, Margaret Maron will appeal to you. Her relaxed yet absorbing storytelling style captures the atmosphere of Southern communities, addressing social issues alongside clever mysteries.
A notable work, Bootlegger's Daughter, introduces Deborah Knott, a smart, down-to-earth lawyer who investigates a family murder with warmth and wit.
Laurie R. King crafts mysteries filled with intelligent narratives and perceptive characters, something fans of Susan Dunlap's thoughtful style will enjoy.
King often weaves history and psychology into her novels, adding depth and complexity without losing the joy of a good mystery.
Readers new to King might start with The Beekeeper's Apprentice, which reimagines Sherlock Holmes with a fascinating new apprentice, Mary Russell, in an adventure that is both cerebral and charming.
Readers who appreciate the crime-solving precision and compelling characters in Susan Dunlap's books will also enjoy Rochelle Krich. Krich writes engrossing mysteries that explore moral questions, often through the lens of Judaism and family dynamics.
In her notable novel, Blues in the Night, readers follow homicide detective Jessica Drake as she investigates complex crimes, with richly-drawn characters and a vivid Los Angeles setting.
Liza Cody creates realistic and gritty crime novels full of sharp dialogue and interesting, authentic characters. Her stories often feature strong female leads who overcome tough situations by trusting their intuition and street smarts.
Fans of Susan Dunlap will appreciate Cody's sharp and witty approach to mystery-solving. A good book to try is Bucket Nut, which introduces the clever and unconventional investigator Eva Wylie.
Val McDermid delivers dark, suspenseful mysteries with complex characters and carefully constructed plots. Her novels frequently explore difficult moral themes and psychological suspense, assuring plenty of twists along the way.
Readers who enjoy Susan Dunlap's well-developed characters and intriguing mysteries might enjoy McDermid's absorbing storytelling. Try The Mermaids Singing, the first novel of the gripping Tony Hill and Carol Jordan series.
T. Jefferson Parker writes insightful crime thrillers set mostly in Southern California, combining strong storytelling with richly drawn characters. His stories explore crime's impact on individuals and communities, with an engaging, humane approach.
Readers who like Susan Dunlap's thoughtfully woven plots and personal stakes might enjoy Parker's work. Consider reading Laguna Heat, a compelling crime thriller featuring Tom Shephard, a detective confronting his troubled past.
Earlene Fowler creates cozy mysteries focusing on close-knit communities, everyday life, and richly detailed characters. Her books are often set in small towns, with themes of friendship, loyalty, and hidden secrets that slowly unravel.
If you appreciate Susan Dunlap's character-driven stories and the charm of community-based mysteries, you will likely enjoy Fowler's Fool's Puzzle, featuring amateur sleuth Benni Harper.
Dana Stabenow weaves together vivid descriptions of Alaskan landscapes, tense mysteries, and strong, resilient characters. Her novels often explore themes of survival and community due to the unique challenges posed by the Alaskan setting.
If you like Susan Dunlap's sense of place and believable, determined sleuths, you'll probably enjoy Stabenow's novels. Her series starter, A Cold Day for Murder, introduces the independent and resourceful private investigator Kate Shugak.