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Hello, mystery enthusiasts! Welcome to this week’s update covering notable happenings in the realms of literary thrillers and adaptations. There’s a mix of adaptation updates, book recommendations, and exciting releases to explore!
Starting with some unfortunate news: Kerry Greenwood, the celebrated author behind the Phryne Fisher series, has passed away at the age of 70.
NPR has some intriguing reading lists: Check out six captivating stories that promise to keep you spellbound this weekend, one of which is Vera Wong’s Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man) by Jesse Q. Sutanto.
For those drawn to true crime narratives: The new show, based on Walter Roth’s non-fiction book “Soko Erle,” reimagines the harrowing 2016 investigation into the slayings of two young women in southern Germany. Learn more here.
Upcoming Adaptations and New Titles
Fans of Killing Eve will be thrilled with news of a prequel: Rumors suggest that the BBC’s Cold War espionage drama, Honey, might tie back to the universe of Killing Eve, although such connections have yet to be officially confirmed.
In other exciting releases: Erewhon Books has announced All Her Potential by Lev AC Rosen, featuring a famed scientist’s murder at a secluded estate and five potential suspects. Fans of Rosen’s work might also enjoy his earlier historical mysteries, including Lavender House.
Prequels continue to captivate: Paramount+ has renewed Dexter: Original Sin for a second season, adding to the success of this beloved franchise.
The wave of nostalgic adaptations persists: First looks at the revival of I Know What You Did Last Summer have received positive reactions, and whispers about potential cast returns stir excitement amongst fans.
On the horizon, something altogether fresh: The film adaptation of the forthcoming book 38 Londres Street by Philippe Sands is in the works. The plot follows an ex-spy attempting to prevent Chile’s dictator from escaping after capture in London, creating a backdrop of international tension. Read more about this new thriller.
Additionally: Anne Cleeves’ A Lesson in Dying, the first novel in her Inspector Ramsay series, is finally available to US readers after more than two decades. Discover more about this release.
Explore more recommended titles featured in the Unusual Suspects newsletters. Check the past newsletters for insights on books here. For a glimpse at upcoming 2025 mystery releases, and titles from 2024 and 2023.
As always, keep the detective spirit alive! Until next time, let’s discuss books and share thoughts on Bluesky, Goodreads, Litsy, and Substack.
This segment highlights insights from the Editorial Desk.
This week, we’re revisiting a post that continues to resonate with our Managing Editor, Vanessa Diaz. Years later, the release of American Dirt still invites strong opinions. Here’s a brief overview of the controversy surrounding this book.
Picture the scene: In January 2020, a book with a striking blue and white cover begins to circulate widely among readers. The intricate design of a hummingbird framed by black barbed wire sparked intrigue and discussion, symbolizing the complex narrative of borders and migration.
The story focuses on a young bookstore owner in Acapulco, whose family is murdered by a drug cartel during a family celebration. As she and her son navigate the dangerous journey north, themes of survival and the migrant experience emerge. Initially hailed as a powerful immigration narrative, it soon garnered notable praise, including endorsements from celebrities and authors alike, solidifying its status as a significant work in contemporary literature.
Yet, even after five years, this book remains a contentious topic for many.
Source
bookriot.com