William Ryan's Favourite
Historical Crime Novels

The best historical crime fiction books, as chosen by William Ryan, author of The Constant Soldier.

Ann Cleeves' Shetland series

Ann Cleeves’ bestselling Shetland series has also been made into a hit TV series on BBC One, but you can start reading the books now.

The Axeman’'s Jazz and the Rashomon Effect

The Rashomon Effect is not widely known by name, though its principles are scattered throughout the great crime novels, films and, recently, television shows. Ray Celestin explains its influence on his novel, The Axeman's Jazz. 

Andrea Camilleri and Michelle Birkby shortlisted for the 2016 CWA Dagger Awards

TheCrime Writers’ Association Dagger Awards have been synonymous with quality crime writing for over fifty years.

The Forgetting Time by Sharon Guskin

How to commit the perfect murder: Melanie Raabe

In Melanie Raabe's new novel, Linda sets up a trap to capture the killer of her sister Anna. But how would Melanie commit the perfect murder...

Flash fiction: How to kill a man well by Malcolm Mackay

The shortest of short stories from Scottish crime writer Malcolm Mackay. 

The very best in cosy crime

Prefer a clever whodunit to a shocking thriller? Here’s our pick of the best crime novels that offer a compelling mystery without all the gory details.

Sue Grafton's Alphabet series

Sue Grafton's Alphabet series of novels, featuring clever, feisty and funny Californian private eye Kinsey Millhone, in order from A to X. 

The Crime Book Club
The Beauty of the End

Debbie Howells introduces our first Thin Blue Spine Crime Book Club choice, The Beauty of the End.