The novel “What the Dead Know” by Laura Lippman centers on a woman who claims to be Heather Bethany, one of two sisters who vanished from a Baltimore mall decades ago. Her sudden reappearance raises questions about where she’s been and what really happened that day.
As the story unfolds, secrets from the past begin to surface, weaving Baltimore’s setting into the mystery.
Anne Tyler wrote “The Accidental Tourist,” a story about Macon Leary, a travel guide writer who hates traveling and prefers routines. After his marriage falls apart following a family tragedy, he meets Muriel, an eccentric dog trainer.
Their unlikely connection shakes up his orderly world and forces him to confront change in ways he never planned. It’s set against the backdrop of Baltimore, which threads through the characters’ lives in quiet but meaningful ways.
This novel was adapted into a film titled “The Accidental Tourist” in 1988. The movie was directed by Lawrence Kasdan and starred William Hurt, Kathleen Turner, and Geena Davis.
The novel “Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant” by Anne Tyler follows the story of the Tull family in Baltimore.
It centers on Pearl Tull, a stubborn and often harsh matriarch, and her three children as they navigate their complicated relationships and reflect on the struggles of their past.
Through the lens of family meals and gatherings, the book explores themes of connection and isolation.
Thom Demijohn’s “Black Alice” blends social commentary with a dark and twisty plot. The story follows a young white girl who is kidnapped and forced to masquerade as a Black girl in a Baltimore ghetto.
Her experience paints a stark picture of race and identity while weaving in a mystery about her captors and their motives. The setting of 1960s Baltimore adds a vivid and gritty backdrop to the narrative.
“Crazy Lady!” by Jane Leslie Conly is about Vernon, a teenage boy living in Baltimore, who struggles with loss and challenges at school. His life changes when he befriends Maxine, a loud and unpredictable woman from his neighborhood, and her son Ronald, who has special needs.
Through their unlikely friendship, Vernon learns about compassion, community, and understanding others. The story captures both the hardships and the small joys of their lives, showing how connection can make a difference.
John Waters wrote “Liarmouth: A Feel-Bad Romance,” a wild and darkly humorous story about a con artist named Marsha Sprinkle. She scams people in airports, steals luggage, and seems to thrive on chaos.
The book is packed with bizarre characters and absurd situations, as Marsha’s dysfunctional relationships and life of scams spiral out of control. Waters brings his trademark offbeat energy to this strange and unforgettable tale set in Baltimore.
The book “Executive Orders” by Tom Clancy follows Jack Ryan as he unexpectedly becomes President of the United States after a deadly attack wipes out many government officials. Set partly in Baltimore, the story deals with issues like national security and global tensions.
As Ryan navigates the challenges of leading a country, threats arise from international enemies, and a biological attack adds urgency to his presidency.
Jonathan Maberry writes “The Joe Ledger Series,” a mix of action and science fiction centered on Joe Ledger, a Baltimore detective. After being recruited by a secret government organization, Ledger faces bioterrorists, zombies, and other bizarre threats.
The books bring a sharp focus to the city and its role in the fight against global chaos. Baltimore isn’t just a backdrop; it adds grit and atmosphere, grounding the thrilling battles and mysteries Ledger encounters.
Saundra Mitchell’s “The Vespertine” is set in 1889 Baltimore and follows Amelia, a young girl sent to the city to find a suitable match. While there, she discovers she has a strange ability to see glimpses of the future at sunset.
Her visions bring excitement and danger to her social circle, as they begin to unfold in unexpected ways. The mix of romance, friendship, and mysterious powers creates a vivid look at both the beauty and shadows of that time.
Tom Clancy wrote “Without Remorse,” a story about John Kelly, a former Navy SEAL seeking revenge after his girlfriend is murdered by a drug ring. Set partly in Baltimore, the book follows John as he hunts down those responsible and uncovers a larger criminal operation.
The city provides a gritty backdrop to scenes of crime and danger, highlighting the personal stakes for John in his quest for justice.