If you enjoy reading novels by William Ryan then you might also like the following authors:
Philip Kerr was a Scottish author known for his historical crime novels. His “Berlin Noir” trilogy is a standout, starting with the book “March Violets.”
Set in 1936 Berlin, the story follows Bernie Gunther, a private detective hired to track down stolen jewels belonging to a murdered couple. The plot weaves through the tense atmosphere of Nazi Germany, full of corruption, danger, and dark secrets.
Bernie’s sharp wit and cynical outlook give the book a unique edge, making it an unforgettable read for fans of gritty historical mysteries.
Tom Rob Smith is known for writing stories that keep you hooked. His novel “Child 44” is set in the Soviet Union and follows a murder investigation in a dangerous, oppressive time. It’s part of a series, which continues with “The Secret Speech.”
Another standalone work, “The Farm,” explores family secrets and trust, keeping the reader guessing with every turn.
Martin Cruz Smith writes stories that blend mystery and atmosphere. Fans of William Ryan might enjoy his novel “Gorky Park,” where a murder investigation unfolds in Soviet-era Moscow.
Another great pick is “Polar Star,” which takes you aboard a fishing vessel in the Bering Sea, where secrets and danger collide. Smith’s ability to create vivid settings makes his books hard to put down.
Charles Cumming writes modern spy fiction with a touch of realism. His novel “A Spy by Nature” follows a young man recruited into the world of espionage. In “The Trinity Six,” he blends history and mystery through a story tied to the Cambridge spy ring.
Both books offer suspense without overcomplicating the plot.
David Downing writes stories that fans of William Ryan might enjoy. His “Station” series captures the tension of pre-World War II Berlin, starting with “Zoo Station.”
Another standout is “Jack of Spies,” set before World War I, which follows an American caught in a dangerous web of espionage. His books often bring history to life through gritty, atmospheric settings and tightly-woven plots.
Renée Knight is known for writing psychological thrillers with sharp twists. Her debut novel, “Disclaimer,” keeps readers guessing until the end. Another well-received book, “The Secretary,” explores themes of loyalty and power in a tense and suspenseful way.
Both are great picks if you’re into stories that challenge your perspective.
Fiona Valpy writes heartfelt stories that often draw on historical events, weaving them into narratives filled with emotion and resilience.
If you enjoy the depth and atmosphere of William Ryan’s books, you might appreciate Valpy’s “The Dressmaker’s Gift,” which explores secrets and bravery in Nazi-occupied Paris.
Another great choice is “The Beekeeper’s Promise,” where the past and present intertwine through themes of love and survival in wartime France. Her ability to connect history with human experiences makes her work worth exploring.
C.J. Sansom writes historical fiction set in fascinating periods of history. Two of his well-known works are “Dissolution” and “Dark Fire.” They are part of a series following a lawyer named Matthew Shardlake during the reign of Henry VIII.
These books mix mystery with rich historical detail, creating an engaging read.
Andrew Taylor writes stories with layers of mystery and atmosphere. Fans of William Ryan might enjoy “The Ashes of London,” which is set during the Great Fire of London and full of intrigue.
Another standout is “The American Boy,” where a young Edgar Allan Poe becomes part of a dark tale of secrets and betrayal. Taylor’s books often have historical settings with plots that pull you in.
Philip Sington writes stories with rich characters and intriguing plots. Some of his notable books include “The Einstein Girl” and “Zoia’s Gold.” These novels explore mysteries and human connections in unique settings.
Joseph Kanon writes stories full of Cold War tension and twists. If you enjoy William Ryan’s books, you might like Kanon’s way of weaving historical events into suspenseful plots. “The Good German” explores secrets in postwar Berlin.
“Leaving Berlin” follows a writer caught in East Berlin’s web of lies, showing the shadowy world of espionage. His work offers a deep dive into moral dilemmas and shifting allegiances.
Alan Furst writes stories set in Europe before and during World War II. His novel “Night Soldiers” follows a young Bulgarian man who is drawn into Soviet espionage. Another book, “Dark Star,” tells the story of a journalist caught up in pre-war intrigue.
“The Polish Officer” focuses on resistance efforts during the Nazi invasion of Poland. His work often captures the tense and shadowy atmosphere of the time.
Ellis Peters is great for anyone who enjoys historical mysteries. Her “Cadfael Chronicles” series, starting with “A Morbid Taste for Bones,” is set in 12th-century England. The stories revolve around Brother Cadfael, who has a knack for solving crimes.
Another standout is “One Corpse Too Many.” It combines a vivid medieval setting with sharp storytelling. If you like William Ryan’s focus on atmosphere and detail, you’ll probably enjoy these too.
Alex von Tunzelmann tells stories with a focus on history and its impact. Her book “Indian Summer” explores the final days of British rule in India. “Red Heat” takes a closer look at power struggles in the Caribbean during the Cold War.
Her writing often sheds light on big moments while staying relatable and clear.
Kate Atkinson tells stories with layers that slowly come together, holding your attention as the plot unfolds.
If you enjoy William Ryan’s atmospheric and detailed settings, you might like her book “Life After Life,” where characters grapple with fate and choices against the backdrop of historical events.
“Case Histories” is another one to try, blending personal mysteries with emotional depth.