The Detective

by Roderick Thorp
The Detective cover
Good Books rating 3.17
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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  • ID: 8906
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-22
  • ISBN: 9781497680944
  • Publisher: Open Road Media
  • Published: 2014-12-02
  • Reviews: 3

In this gripping tale, Joe Leland, a decorated war veteran turned private investigator, finds his quiet life disrupted when a widow hires him to probe her husband's apparent suicide. The case, which initially seems straightforward, quickly spirals into a complex web of deceit and danger. As Leland digs deeper, he uncovers secrets that threaten to expose the underbelly of his seemingly peaceful city. The book, which inspired a hit movie starring Frank Sinatra, is a masterful blend of suspense and intrigue, showcasing the author's knack for crafting compelling narratives that keep readers on the edge of their seats. /n/n The story delves into themes of justice, redemption, and the consequences of one's past actions. Leland's journey is not just about solving a crime but also about confronting his own demons and finding a sense of purpose in a world that has moved on without him. The novel's vivid descriptions and well-developed characters make it a standout in the mystery genre, offering a satisfying blend of action, drama, and psychological depth.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2023-06-26
engaging 3.00

The book is praised for its gripping narrative and well-developed characters, making it a compelling read. The reviewer appreciates the intricate plot and the depth of the protagonist's journey.

Readers on Goodreads have highlighted how 'The Detective' keeps them on the edge of their seats with its fast-paced storytelling. The protagonist, Joe Leland, is particularly noted for his complexity and relatability, which adds layers to the narrative. The reviewer found the book's exploration of themes like justice and redemption to be both thought-provoking and engaging. Overall, the consensus is that this is a must-read for fans of crime fiction, offering a rich and satisfying experience.

Quick quotes

    A gripping narrative that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

    Joe Leland is a character you can't help but root for.

    The themes of justice and redemption are explored with depth and nuance.

TwentyFourPagesPerSecond · 2016-01-03
rewarding 3.50

The reviewer acknowledges the book's length and complexity, finding it ultimately rewarding despite its challenges. The detailed world-building and character development are particularly commended.

The reviewer from TwentyFourPagesPerSecond notes that 'The Detective' is a substantial read, both in length and depth. They appreciate the intricate world-building and the detailed character development, which make the story feel immersive and realistic. While the book requires stamina, the reviewer finds the payoff to be well worth the effort. The exploration of the protagonist's personal and professional struggles adds a layer of depth that enhances the overall reading experience.

Quick quotes

    The book is friggin' huge, but the payoff is worth it.

    The detailed world-building and character development are commendable.

    The protagonist's struggles add a layer of depth to the story.

Barnes & Noble · 2014-12-02
solid 3.00

The book is seen as a solid entry in the crime fiction genre, with a strong narrative and well-crafted characters. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to keep the reader engaged throughout.

The reviewer from Barnes & Noble finds 'The Detective' to be a solid and engaging read. They praise the book's strong narrative and well-crafted characters, which contribute to a compelling story. The reviewer notes that the book's exploration of themes like justice and morality adds depth to the narrative. While the plot may not be groundbreaking, the execution is praised for its ability to keep the reader engaged from start to finish.

Quick quotes

    A solid and engaging read with a strong narrative.

    The exploration of themes like justice and morality adds depth.

    The book's execution keeps the reader engaged throughout.

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