4.1
Part of "Dr. Siri Paiboun" series
"Anarchy and Old Dogs" by Colin Cotterill is a delightful and engaging mystery novel that offers a unique blend of humor, social commentary, and detective work. The book is the sixth installment in the series featuring the endearing protagonist, Dr. Siri Paiboun, the national coroner of Laos. In "Anarchy and Old Dogs," Dr. Siri is tasked with investigating the murder of a close friend, a retired general who was once a member of the Communist party. As Siri delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption, deceit, and conspiracy that threatens to destabilize the fragile peace in post-revolutionary Laos. Cotterill's writing is witty and insightful, providing readers with a vivid and compelling portrait of life in 1970s Laos. The author's deep knowledge and appreciation of Lao culture, history, and politics shine through in his writing, making the novel a rich and rewarding reading experience. One of the strengths of "Anarchy and Old Dogs" is its memorable cast of characters, including the wise-cracking Dr. Siri, his no-nurses Nurse Dtui and Nurse Mali, and the enigmatic and resourceful Auntie Bpoo. These characters are drawn with warmth, humor, and humanity, making them instantly relatable and endearing to readers. The novel's plot is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Dr. Siri's investigation. Cotterill's depiction of the political intrigue and power struggles in post-revolutionary Laos is both nuanced and insightful, providing readers with a rare and fascinating glimpse into this little-known corner of the world. Overall, "Anarchy and Old Dogs" is a highly entertaining and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to fans of mystery, humor, and social commentary. Its unique setting, engaging characters, and compelling plot make it a standout addition to the genre, and a must-read for anyone looking for a fresh and exciting new voice in contemporary fiction...
Colin Cotterill
The Coroner's Lunch
If you enjoyed the wit and humor of 'Anarchy and Old Dogs', you'll love Colin Cotterill's first Dr. Siri Paiboun novel, 'The Coroner's Lunch'. Set in 1970s Laos, the book introduces the elderly, grumpy, and unconventional Dr. Siri, who is appointed the national coroner of the communist party. With his sardonic take on life and politics, Dr. Siri tackles mysterious deaths and supernatural events in this captivating, entertaining, and thought-provoking series opener.
Learn MoreJasper Fforde
The Eyre Affair
For readers who enjoyed the unconventional narrative and humor of 'Anarchy and Old Dogs', 'The Eyre Affair' by Jasper Fforde is an excellent choice. This genre-bending novel takes place in an alternate reality where literature is of utmost importance, and literary detective Thursday Next must save Jane Eyre from being rewritten. With its witty humor, clever plot, and engaging characters, this book will appeal to Cotterill's fans.
Learn MoreAlexander McCall Smith
The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency
If you relished the humor and the unique setting of 'Anarchy and Old Dogs', you'll find 'The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency' by Alexander McCall Smith to be a delightful read. Set in Botswana, the series follows the adventures of Precious Ramotswe, the country's first female detective, as she solves mysteries and navigates life's challenges with warmth, wisdom, and a touch of humor.
Learn MoreAnne Perry
The Cater Street Hangman
If you enjoyed the mystery elements of 'Anarchy and Old Dogs', you'll find 'The Cater Street Hangman' by Anne Perry to be a compelling read. Set in Victorian London, the novel introduces the Charlotte and Thomas Pitt series, where they must solve a series of gruesome murders while navigating the complexities of class and gender in 19th-century England.
Learn MoreE.W. Hornung
The Amateur Cracksman
For readers who appreciated the humor and camaraderie in 'Anarchy and Old Dogs', 'The Amateur Cracksman' by E.W. Hornung is a great choice. This collection of short stories follows the adventures of gentleman thief A.J. Raffles and his sidekick Bunny, as they navigate the criminal underworld and the upper class of Edwardian England.
Learn MoreDashiell Hammett
The Thin Man
If you enjoyed the witty banter and the unconventional detective duo in 'Anarchy and Old Dogs', you'll find 'The Thin Man' by Dashiell Hammett to be a highly entertaining read. This classic detective novel features retired detective Nick Charles and his wealthy, socialite wife Nora as they become embroiled in a murder investigation and the world of New York's high society.
Learn MoreJasper Fforde
The Big Over Easy
For readers who enjoyed the offbeat humor and unconventional narrative of 'Anarchy and Old Dogs', 'The Big Over Easy' by Jasper Fforde is a must-read. This novel is a retelling of 'Great Expectations' with a noir twist, where detective Jack Spratt must solve the murder of nursery rhyme character Humpty Dumpty.
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