4.02
Part of "Bill Gastner Mystery" series
"Bitter Recoil" by Steven F. Havill is a gripping mystery novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. This is the 18th book in the acclaimed Posadas County Mystery series, and it does not disappoint. The story follows Undersheriff Bill Gastner as he investigates a series of mysterious events in the small town of Posadas, New Mexico. When a rancher is found dead in a shallow grave, Gastner must unravel a web of secrets and lies to get to the bottom of the case. The investigation takes an unexpected turn when Gastner discovers a connection to a cold case from over a decade ago. Havill's writing is sharp and precise, painting a vivid picture of the rugged New Mexico landscape and the tight-knit community of Posadas County. The characters are well-developed and believable, with Gastner being a particular standout. The author does an excellent job of portraying Gastner's quiet strength and determination, as well as his vulnerability and humanity. One of the strengths of "Bitter Recoil" is the way Havill weaves together multiple storylines, creating a complex and engaging narrative. The pacing is excellent, with the tension building steadily throughout the book. The author also does an excellent job of incorporating twists and turns that will keep readers guessing until the very end. Overall, "Bitter Recoil" is a must-read for fans of mystery novels. It is a well-crafted and engaging story that will keep readers hooked from beginning to end. Havill's writing is top-notch, and his characters and plot are sure to leave a lasting impression...
Charles Dickens
The Old Curiosity Shop
If you appreciated the moral complexity of 'Bitter Recoil', you may find yourself drawn to Dickens' classic novel. The story of young Nell and her grandfather's struggle to pay off their debts to a sinister moneylender explores themes of greed, innocence, and the corrupting influence of power.
Learn MoreDashiell Hammett
The Thin Man
If you enjoyed the witty banter and snappy dialogue of 'Bitter Recoil', you'll love this classic detective novel. The story of retired detective Nick Charles and his wealthy socialite wife Nora as they become embroiled in a murder investigation is full of sharp humor and clever plot twists.
Learn MoreCarlos Ruiz Zafón
The Shadow of the Wind
Fans of 'Bitter Recoil' will appreciate the atmospheric setting and intricate plot of this bestselling novel. Set in post-Civil War Barcelona, the story follows a young boy's quest to uncover the truth about a mysterious book and its reclusive author. Like Havill's work, 'The Shadow of the Wind' is a love letter to the power of storytelling and the written word.
Learn MoreJane Harper
The Dry
If you enjoyed the small-town setting and moral complexity of 'Bitter Recoil', you'll love this debut thriller. When a federal agent returns to his drought-stricken hometown to investigate a murder, he must confront the demons of his past and the dark secrets that lie buried beneath the town's surface.
Learn MoreUmberto Eco
The Name of the Rose
Fans of historical mysteries will appreciate the intricate plot and richly detailed setting of this bestselling novel. Set in a medieval monastery, the story follows a Franciscan friar and his young apprentice as they investigate a series of mysterious deaths. Like 'Bitter Recoil', 'The Name of the Rose' is a complex and thought-provoking exploration of morality, power, and the human condition.
Learn MorePeter Lovesey
The Last Detective
If you enjoyed the procedural elements and wry humor of 'Bitter Recoil', you'll love this classic detective novel. The story of Detective Superintendent Peter Diamond, a veteran policeman who's been relegated to the cold case squad, is full of clever plot twists and sharp wit.
Learn MoreMichael Chabon
The Yiddish Policemen's Union
Fans of 'Bitter Recoil' will appreciate the intricate plot and richly drawn characters of this alternate history mystery. Set in a world where the State of Israel was destroyed in 1948 and a temporary Jewish settlement was established in Sitka, Alaska, the story follows a detective as he investigates a murder and uncovers a vast conspiracy.
Learn MoreMichael Connelly
The Lincoln Lawyer
If you enjoyed the legal drama and moral complexity of 'Bitter Recoil', you'll love this bestselling thriller. The story of defense attorney Mickey Haller, who operates out of the back of his Lincoln Town Car, is full of sharp dialogue and clever plot twists.
Learn MoreMichael Connelly
The Black Echo
If you enjoyed the procedural elements and gritty realism of 'Bitter Recoil', you'll love this debut thriller. The story of Harry Bosch, a Vietnam War veteran and LAPD detective, is full of sharp dialogue and intricate plot twists.
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