3.71
The Doan & Carstairs series, penned by American author Norbert Davis, is a delightful foray into the world of detective fiction. The series consists of three novels, published between 1940 and 1943, featuring the unconventional detective duo of Alec Doan and Alistair Carstairs. In the first book, "The Mouse in the Mountain" (1940), Doan, a former lawyer turned private investigator, and Carstairs, a British pilot and part-time detective, find themselves in the picturesque mountains of California, where they are hired to locate a missing heiress. The investigation leads them to a series of bizarre events, including a murder, a hidden treasure, and a mysterious society of mountain dwellers. The second book, "Salty Saucebox" (1941), takes the duo to the bustling docks of San Francisco, where they are tasked with solving a series of thefts and murders. The investigation leads them to a tangled web of gangsters, sailors, and seedy nightclubs, culminating in a thrilling showdown on the high seas. The final book in the series, "The Hanging Acrobat" (1943), finds Doan and Carstairs in the world of circus performers, where they are hired to investigate a series of strange accidents. The investigation leads them to a group of acrobats, a traveling circus, and a dangerous rivalry that threatens to unravel the entire circus. Davis's writing style is characterized by witty dialogue, clever plot twists, and a unique sense of humor. The Doan & Carstairs series is a must-read for fans of classic detective fiction, offering a fresh and entertaining take on the genre. The series is also notable for its diverse cast of characters, including strong and intelligent female characters, and its nuanced portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters, which was rare for the time. Overall, the Doan & Carstairs series is a shining example of the golden age of detective fiction, and a testament to Davis's skill as a writer.
Norbert Davis
The Mouse in the Mountain
If you're a fan of 'Doan & Carstairs', you'll love this novel by the same author. It's a fast-paced, witty mystery featuring private detective Dol Bonner and her sidekick, Goodwin. This time, they're on the trail of a missing author and a legendary treasure in the California mountains.
Learn MoreRaymond Chandler
Farewell, My Lovely
Another great choice for fans of 'Doan & Carstairs' is 'Farewell, My Lovely'. In this novel, Marlowe is hired by a former cellmate to find his missing girlfriend, but soon finds himself caught up in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a powerful criminal.
Learn MoreRaymond Chandler
The Long Goodbye
In 'The Long Goodbye', Marlowe becomes embroiled in the lives of a wealthy alcoholic and a struggling writer, leading to a complex and dangerous investigation. Fans of 'Doan & Carstairs' will appreciate the snappy dialogue and unconventional detective work.
Learn MoreDashiell Hammett
The Maltese Falcon
If you enjoy the fast-paced, witty mysteries of 'Doan & Carstairs', you'll love 'The Maltese Falcon'. This classic novel features private detective Sam Spade as he becomes embroiled in a dangerous hunt for a valuable statue.
Learn MoreMartin Cruz Smith
Gorky Park
If you enjoy the complex plots and unexpected twists of 'Doan & Carstairs', you'll love 'Gorky Park'. This novel features a Soviet investigator as he uncovers a dangerous conspiracy involving powerful politicians and criminal oligarchs.
Learn MoreDean Koontz
The Silent Corner
Fans of 'Doan & Carstairs' who enjoy a mix of mystery and suspense will love 'The Silent Corner'. This novel features a retired FBI agent who becomes embroiled in a dangerous investigation involving a series of mysterious suicides.
Learn MoreDashiell Hammett
The Thin Man
If you enjoy the snappy dialogue and unconventional detective work in 'Doan & Carstairs', you'll love 'The Thin Man'. This classic mystery features retired detective Nick Charles and his socialite wife Nora as they become embroiled in a murder investigation.
Learn MoreDashiell Hammett
The Dain Curse
Another great choice for fans of 'Doan & Carstairs' is 'The Dain Curse'. This novel features Hammett's signature hard-boiled style and features a complex plot involving a cursed family and a mysterious cult.
Learn MoreRaymond Chandler
The Big Sleep
Chandler's Philip Marlowe is a classic detective in the same vein as Doan & Carstairs. In 'The Big Sleep', Marlowe is hired to investigate a blackmail case, but soon finds himself embroiled in a larger web of crime and deceit.
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